Synonyms:

Ceropegia dichotoma subsp. fusca

Habitat:

Ceropegia fusca, identified by its distinct characteristics, is native solely to the Canary Islands. It can be found thriving in specific regions, notably Tenerife, especially in the Macizo de Anaga area, Gran Canaria, and La Palma.

In its natural habitat, Ceropegia fusca displays a unique adaptation to its environment. It predominantly grows in areas characterized by recent, iron-rich lava deposits, showcasing a vibrant red hue. These plants are often spotted in locations where they receive ample sunlight, typically at elevations of up to approximately 600 meters. In their native habitat, these resilient plants give rise to large, upright, and sprawling shrubs, creating an intriguing presence in the landscape.

Description:

Ceropegia fusca, known since 1832, is an attractive succulent that boasts a distinctive growth pattern resembling a shrub with multiple spreading, cylindrical branches. These branches primarily branch near the base and can reach heights of 60-90 centimeters, or even more. The stems stand upright, closely packed together, resembling organ pipes, and sport short-lived linear leaves at their tips. Its name, “fusca,” is derived from the fuscous or greyish-brown hue of the stems. However, in their natural state, the older stems often turn a striking white, evoking the appearance of a cluster of bleached bones. In its native habitat, younger joints are readily shed when conditions become excessively hot and dry, allowing the plant to conserve energy.

The stems of Ceropegia fusca are numerous, notably succulent, devoid of thorns, and almost entirely leafless. They are connected, either as single branches or in repeating forks, standing erect, although they may sprawl if they grow beyond a meter in length. These stems adopt a woody texture, measuring between 80 to over 150 centimeters in height. They are smooth, with a glaucous-grey to reddish-green or olive green color, displaying a dense covering of white wax under intense sunlight. The diameter tapers from just over 12 mm at the base, narrowing at the nodes, to just under 6 mm at the last node.

Sessile leaves appear at each node and at the tip of the stem, featuring a few narrow, straight, needle-like shapes. They measure 2-5 cm in length and 1.5-4(-9) mm in width, arranged in opposing pairs. These leaves are deciduous, wilting rapidly if water is insufficient. For the majority of the year, the plant remains leafless.

The lantern-shaped flowers are borne in sessile clusters of two to five in the leaf axils. Sepals are narrow and triangular, measuring 2-3 mm in length. The corolla is tubular, about 3 cm long, with a glabrous exterior in a dull reddish-brown shade. It features five narrow lobes fused at the tip. The tube is thinly hairy on the inside, appearing white or very pale yellow, around 2.5 cm in length, swollen at the base, and cylindrical above with a slight bend. The lobes are approximately 12 mm long, deltoid-lanceolate in shape, tapering into slender tails. The corona is light yellow, while the pedicels are very short, measuring 2-4 mm.

This plant blooms from spring to summer. Its fruits consist of a pair of large capsules, reaching up to 10 cm in length. These capsules contain numerous brown seeds, each adorned with a plume of white hairs (coma), which aids in their wind-driven dispersion.

Cultivation:

Ceropegia fusca, prized for its unique aesthetic, finds a valued place in dry, water-wise gardens designed to withstand drought conditions. This plant thrives under the unobstructed blaze of sunlight, making it an exquisite addition to potted displays. However, it’s important to note that it isn’t suited for indoor cultivation. In regions with mild climates, it flourishes when left to its own devices, demonstrating a remarkable resilience. Remarkably robust, it rarely falls prey to pests or diseases, though occasional vigilance against mealy bugs is advised.

When it comes to watering, a moderate supply during the warmer seasons suffices, while in winter, a more sparing approach is recommended. To truly flourish, Ceropegia fusca demands hot and sun-soaked conditions, thriving with ample exposure to sunlight. This hardy plant’s vitality is maximized in environments with as much sunshine as possible.

Propagation:

Propagation of Ceropegia fusca can be accomplished through both seeds and stem cuttings. When working with stem cuttings, it’s prudent to allow the freshly cut segments to air-dry for approximately a week. This brief period aids in the healing process of the cut ends. Following this, the segments can be planted, and they readily establish roots, ensuring a successful propagation process. This method provides a reliable way to propagate and cultivate new plants.

Curiosity:

Ceropegia fusca is characterized by its deliberate growth, making it a slow-paced plant that doesn’t lend itself well to indoor cultivation. However, its deliberate pace finds purpose in arid gardens, where it serves as an exceptional ornamental addition. Thriving under intense sunlight and high temperatures, this plant flourishes in environments where these conditions prevail. Its preference for hot, sun-drenched surroundings is a key factor in its successful growth and overall vitality.

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