Velvet-cushion
uncarina grandidieri
Also known as: ["Velvet-cushion plant","Madagascar velvet-cushion"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Madagascar, known for its velvety leaves and distinctive spiny seed pods.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Pedaliaceae |
| Genus: | Uncarina |
| Botanical Name: | Uncarina grandidieri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in a bright, sunny location or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogged roots.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand for improved drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary to reshape or rejuvenate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but benefits from partial shade in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching; provide shade during peak midday heat in hot climates; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with large particles for aeration; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering in dense soils.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C) during active growth; tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in heat.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer for best results.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch stem cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in well-draining medium.
- Keep moist but not waterlogged.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), humid environment with bright, indirect light; protect from direct sun until established.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand; can also root in water initially but transplant to soil soon after.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone to improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; new growth typically emerges in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or scissors, rooting hormone, well-draining soil mix, small pots, plastic bags or propagator for humidity.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain high humidity initially; use bottom heat if possible to speed rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove any weak, spindly, or dead growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems; best done in spring before active growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune in early spring; cut above nodes; remove dead/damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, just before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains freely from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains completely to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during active growing season (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry partially between waterings; reduce watering significantly in fall and cease entirely in winter when dormant.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage; avoid heavy, moisture-retentive soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting, scorching, or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death; prolonged cold may lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors or to a sheltered location in winter; ensure temperatures stay above 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting, especially if combined with inadequate water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or pebble trays; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring-summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest the seeds or sap of Uncarina grandidieri may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The effects are typically limited to digestive discomfort without significant systemic toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of the seeds or sap by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds primarily affect the digestive system, causing discomfort but not severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicThe seeds and sap of Uncarina grandidieri contain compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The physiological impact is generally limited to localized irritation and discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Uncarina grandidieri?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Q: Does Uncarina grandidieri require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Uncarina grandidieri suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It can be grown indoors, but it requires bright light and good air circulation to thrive.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Pedaliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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