Bottle Plant
adenia globosa
Also known as: ["Bottle Plant","Swollen Vine"]
Overview
A succulent vine with a distinctive swollen stem base, native to arid regions of Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Adenia |
| Botanical Name: | Adenia globosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright location with protection from intense direct sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged soil.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove unwanted growth without drastically reducing size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but should be protected from intense afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade outdoors. Indoors, position near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
bright indirect light to partial shade
Rotate the plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing directly in south-facing windows during summer.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce to monthly in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot; adjust frequency based on season and environmental conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix with at least 30% inorganic components.
Temperature
Prefers temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild fluctuations but should be protected from extreme cold or heat.
Avoid placing near air conditioning vents or heaters; maintain consistent room temperature; monitor for signs of stress during seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during active growth, none in dormancy
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush the soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings are more reliable for Adenia globosa.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to encourage faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks, with new growth appearing after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting to prevent rot; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; use a heat mat to speed up rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make precise cuts just above a node or leaf junction. Remove any leggy or crossing stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth. Pruning also helps manage the size of the plant.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any dead roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Adenia globosa prefers slightly crowded roots but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose the right pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water lightly after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow excess to drain away. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during the dormant season (fall/winter), allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. Increase watering frequency during the active growing season (spring/summer), ensuring the soil remains lightly moist but not waterlogged.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage. Incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, slowed growth, or leaf drop can indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause the plant to enter dormancy, leading to stunted growth and potential cold damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location, away from drafty windows or doors. Use a space heater if necessary to maintain optimal temperatures.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting, especially if combined with intense sunlight.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity around the plant, and water more frequently to compensate for faster evaporation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid dormant season; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Adenia globosa. The sap can cause skin irritation upon contact. While severe toxicity is rare, ingestion should still be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Adenia globosa can cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. The sap may also cause skin irritation if contact occurs. Severe toxicity is unlikely unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAdenia globosa contains toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The sap is particularly irritating and may cause mild dermatitis. Ingestion can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset, but severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Adenia globosa?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings, especially during dormancy.
Q: Does Adenia globosa flower indoors?
A: It may produce small, greenish flowers under optimal conditions, but flowering is not guaranteed indoors.
Q: Is Adenia globosa toxic to pets?
A: Toxicity data is limited, so it is best to keep it out of reach of pets as a precaution.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | bright indirect light to parti |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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