Emm's Plant House

Fockea edulis 15cm H27.5cm

£61.00 GBP

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Pot Size 15cm H27.5cm

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Fockea edulis, commonly known as the Bushman's Pillow or Elephant's Foot, is a unique and striking succulent native to southern Africa. It is known for its thick, bulbous base, which stores water, and its slender, climbing stems. The plant's ability to adapt to arid environments makes it a perfect addition for succulent collections. Fockea edulis produces small, bell-shaped flowers and has a fascinating growth habit, making it a conversation piece for any indoor garden or succulent enthusiast's collection.

Full Botanical Name: Fockea edulis
Common Names: Bushman's Pillow, Elephant's Foot
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to southern Africa, particularly in Namibia and South Africa
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in arid, semi-desert regions where it is found in rocky or sandy soils, often in scrubland or grassland environments, thriving in the dry heat with low rainfall.

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sunlight. Too much direct sunlight can cause sunburn, while too little light may reduce its growth and cause the plant to become leggy.

Ideal Room: Ideal for bright living rooms, kitchens, or sunrooms with indirect light. It is well-suited for windowsills and works well in areas with low humidity.

Feeding: Fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced fertilizer. Reduce feeding during the fall and winter months when growth slows or becomes dormant.

Humidity: Prefers low humidity, typical of its native habitat. It is well-suited for dry indoor environments, and it does not require frequent misting.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 60°F and 85°F (16°C to 29°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to cold drafts and frost.

Watering: Water thoroughly when the soil is dry to the touch. Fockea edulis is drought-tolerant and prefers to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure the plant is not sitting in water.

Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe plant for homes with animals and young children.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining, cactus or succulent mix. Fockea edulis prefers a soil mix that allows water to drain quickly, as it does not tolerate soggy conditions.

Propagation: Propagate by stem cuttings. Allow the cut end to callous over for a few days before planting it in dry soil. It can also be propagated by seeds, though this is a slower process.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters) in length when given a trellis or support, with a spread of around 1-2 feet (30-60 cm). It is a climbing or trailing plant, ideal for containers or hanging baskets.

Growth Rate: Slow-growing, especially during the colder months. It can take several years to reach its full size, making it a long-term investment for plant collectors.

Pests and Treatment: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract mealybugs, aphids, or spider mites. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap to keep the plant healthy.

Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is 1-2 inches larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage to promote healthy root growth.

Pruning: Prune dead or yellowing stems regularly to maintain a tidy appearance. You can also prune back long vines to encourage new growth and help control the plant's size.

Air Purification: Like many succulents, Fockea edulis helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making it a beneficial addition to your home or office.

Folklore: The plant's name "Bushman's Pillow" comes from the shape of the bulbous base, which has been traditionally used by indigenous people for various purposes. The unique appearance of Fockea edulis makes it a symbol of resilience and adaptability in many cultures.

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