Synonyms:

No synonyms are recorded for this species name.

Habitat:

Huernia hybrid ‘Pink eye’ is a nursery cultivar and thus doesn’t exist in nature.

Description:

The Huernia hybrid ‘Pink Eye’, a captivating succulent, boasts a distinctive appearance. This low-growing plant, characterized by its compact clusters, features upright shoots that readily root upon contact with soil. Eschewing conventional leaves, this unique hybrid relies solely on its stems for the process of photosynthesis. The blossoms of ‘Pink Eye’ range in color from a delicate whitish-yellow to a speckled red, showcasing a variety of sizes and shapes that are characteristic of this hybrid. Measuring between 3.5 to 6 centimeters in length and 10-15(-20) millimeters in thickness, the stems of ‘Pink Eye’ exhibit a range of orientations, including upright, decumbent, or ascending, and possess a subtly twisted appearance. Notably, they feature triangular teeth that extend 3-4 millimeters in length. These teeth, sharply pointed and capped with a persistent, rigid white tip, function as rudimentary leaves. Additionally, ‘Pink Eye’ displays conspicuous axillary buds, with the teeth typically curving downward, adding to the distinctive characteristics of this hybrid.
Here we come to the reason of the name of the hybrid: ‘Pink eye’. The reason lies in fact in the star-shaped, 5-lobed flowers, coloured in a vivid magenta-purple. They usually bloom in groups, at the top of the stems. The carrion scented smell, usually coming from Huernia species to attract pollinators (mainly flies), in this hybrid is reduced. The reproductive organs, located at the centre of the flower in a pronounced depression like a cup, are black, enhancing even more the resemblance to a ‘Pink eye’.

Cultivation:

Cultivating and caring for the Huernia hybrid ‘Pink Eye’ is a relatively straightforward process. This unique succulent can thrive in a range of conditions, from partial shade to full sun, and can tolerate some filtered light. It demonstrates a commendable resilience to heat and can endure moderately cool temperatures, as long as it is shielded from frost. Providing a well-ventilated environment is beneficial, and the plant also shows notable resistance to the “Black spot” ailment often encountered by Asclepiads.
As spring arrives and the plant emerges from its winter dormancy, it benefits from regular watering. At this stage, saturating the soil won’t pose a significant risk of root rot. Partial shade is preferred during the spring growth period, and occasional exposure to rain can provide the necessary moisture.
Throughout summer, the plant displays an admirable ability to withstand heavy rainfall, but it can also thrive in drier conditions. Tidying up the stems during the plant’s summer resting period, before the onset of autumn growth, is advisable. The Huernia hybrid ‘Pink Eye’ can withstand elevated outdoor temperatures, as long as it is sheltered in an area with dappled sunlight. This creates favorable conditions for abundant flowering in the coming autumn. While fertilization can be beneficial, relocating the plant during bud development may lead to a loss of blooms.
In autumn, it’s recommended to keep the plant outdoors until nighttime temperatures dip below 5°C.
Winter care is straightforward, with temperatures between 5°-10°C being ideal, along with sufficient light. After the plant has flowered, it’s essential to take additional precautions to ensure it remains dry, as cool, damp conditions during the resting phase can invite fungal issues. Depending on temperature fluctuations, periodic light watering may prove beneficial.
When it comes to potting, selecting a cactus mix or amending regular potting soil with added perlite or pumice is advised. A well-draining, gritty compost provides an excellent medium, and clay pots facilitate the necessary drying out between watering sessions. Repotting every two years is recommended for sustained growth.
In terms of pests and diseases, Huernia plants are generally undemanding, especially when kept free from infestations. However, they can be susceptible to mealy bugs on both stems and roots, potentially leading to fungal complications. It’s imperative to promptly remove any deceased or ailing stems to prevent the spread of illness to healthy sections. Isolating the unaffected portions, allowing them to dry, and subsequently re-rooting them in fresh compost is a prudent course of action.

Propagation:

Propagating the captivating Huernia hybrid ‘Pink Eye’ is most effectively achieved through stem cuttings. Begin by allowing the cuttings to air dry for a day after they have been taken. Lay these stems gently on gritty compost, ensuring they are not buried, and observe as roots develop from the underside. Alternatively, propagation can also be accomplished through seeds. During the spring season, sow the seeds in a mixture of moist, sandy peat moss. It’s important to provide only light covering for the seeds, as they tend to germinate quickly. This method is particularly suitable for the unique Huernia hybrid ‘Pink Eye’.

Curiosity:

The epithet ‘Pink eye’ comes from the vivid magenta color of its flowers, that make this hybrid extremely sought after by the

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www.giromagicactus.com

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