Ruschia

Family. Aizoaceae.

Origin. Africa.

Description. Ruschia is a rather variable genus of perennial succulent plants. Some species are large shrubs with erect stems, while others form low, dense mats. The leaves are very thick, fleshy, green or purple, sometimes with a bluish waxy coating. The exact shape and size of the leaves depend on the species - they can be spatulate or long and round in cross-section. The flowers are bright, attractive, daisy-like, pink, red, purple or white, pleasantly fragrant, solitary.

Height. Height is very variable. It grows quite quickly and can reach 2 m in height. More compact species are usually grown indoors.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

In the warm season, normal room temperature is suitable, in the winter dormant period - coolness of about 10° C.

Lighting

Place the ruschia in a sunny location with direct sunlight in the morning and evening. On hot summer days, arrange some shading. Good lighting directly affects flowering.

Care

One of the most unpretentious plants, which will be easier to kill with excessive care than with neglect. In summer you can place it outdoors, under shelter from wind and rain. 

Substrate

Light, porous, well-drained soil, consisting of turf soil, leaf humus and the addition of coarse river sand and perlite to improve drainage.

Feeding

Apply fertilizer for cacti and succulents at half strength monthly in spring and summer. In autumn and winter, feeding is stopped. 

Purpose

Often used as a groundcover species that also flowers. Some bushes have creeping stems - they are used as hanging plants and grown in baskets at eye level.

Flowering time

Summer.

Air humidity

Keep the succulent in a dry atmosphere - spraying ruschia is not required. Ensure good air movement around the bush, while avoiding cold drafts.

Soil moisture

Water sparingly during active growth, allowing the top 5cm of soil to dry out before each subsequent watering. In winter, keep almost dry. When watering, try not to get water on the leaves and stems of the plant.

Transfer

Every year, in the spring. The root system is shallow, so flat bowls are suitable for planting. 

Reproduction

Ruschia cuttings take root easily in damp sand in summer. Dry the cut area for 5 - 7 days before planting. Seeds can be sown in spring and summer in damp sand.

Pests and diseases

High air humidity will lead to leaf and stem rot, to bacterial leaf rot. Excess nutrients lead to leaf wilting. The flower is rarely damaged by pests.