Dorstenia lavrani

BotanicalCollector

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In Stock · Ships in 48h
$ 20.00 / plant
Attribute Option
Quantity Qty
1
Sales Type Retail, Same Batch
Product Size H3-5cm
Weight 0.1 kg
Propagation Method Seed-grown
Genus Dorstenia

Description

Origin and Habitat: North of Erigavo in the Taba'a Gap (Tabia Gorge), Northern Somalia (not known elsewhere.).
Altitude range: 100–1750 metres above sea level.
Habitat and ecology. This species may occur in shady moss filled cracks in a limestone gorge - this gives a clue to the growing conditions needed in cultivation.
Description: Dorstenia lavrani is a many stemmed perennial plant which produced a symmetrical "grove" with many succulent wax-like stems patterned with spiraling rows of whitish leaf scars. Each stem is topped with a rosette of attractively crisped leaves. Overall, this plant has the appearance of a compact grove of palm trees, and is most attractive. Dorstenia lavrani is believed to represent the only species of Dorstenia which is dioecious - in which the male (pollinate) and female (pistillate) flowers, are born on separate plants. So to produce seed, plants of both sex are needed. This are required to set seed. This contrasts with other dorstenias that have flowers of both sexes on the same plant (and are therefore monoecious) so that seeds are freely produced from just a single plant. In addition to its ‘proper name’, it is also listed under various names such as Dorstenia Taba’a Gorge, Dorstenia species Mait Plateau and Dorstenia L&H 10341.

Care Guide

Essential Care Tips for Thriving Plants

Light

Provide partial to full sun. Most plants thrive on direct UV exposure. Avoid placing behind window glass, as it filters out the essential UV rays needed for healthy growth.

Water

Follow the "Soak and Dry" principle. Ensure the top 2–3 cm of soil is bone dry before watering (use the finger test). Reduce frequency in winter, but do not stop watering entirely.

Temperature

The ideal range is 18–35 °C. Maintain temperatures above 5 °C during winter. Please note that temperatures below 0 °C pose a significant risk of plant death.

Humidity

Best kept at 30–50% humidity. Note: High air humidity is not a substitute for root watering. Avoid overly damp areas to prevent root rot or leggy side shoots.

Soil

A loose, well-draining medium is ideal. A mix containing 50–70% grit or mineral soil is recommended for aeration. Outdoor ground planting is also a viable option.

Fertilizer

Fertilize during repotting using Osmocote A2 slow-release fertilizer. Apply sparingly twice a year, or adjust the fertilizer type based on your specific home environment.

Planting Guide

Start Your Green Journey in 4 Steps

01

Unbox & Inspect

Carefully unpack and inspect the plant’s body and roots. We recommend taking photos or videos immediately for your records. Place it in a shaded, well-ventilated spot for 1–2 days to acclimate to its new environment.

02

Potting & Placement

After 24 hours of rest, pot the plant using slightly moistened soil. Place it in a bright, airy location to encourage recovery. Keep away from AC vents or heaters to prevent damage from temperature fluctuations.

03

First Watering

Use water that has sat for at least 24 hours. If using the damp-potting method, wait 2–3 days before the first watering. Ensure a thorough soak until water drains freely from the bottom.

04

Daily Care

Monitor leaf condition and soil moisture daily. If the soil remains damp, increase ventilation rather than watering. Proper airflow is essential to prevent root rot and ensure lasting health.