Cyphostemma juttae ( wild grape ), 6 seeds

Description: The tree grape is a slow-growing succulent with a huge swollen trunk (caudiciform). Due to its distribution, the wild grape has evolved and adapted very well in order to survive. The presence of white, drooping, papery pieces of bark on the yellow-green stems is very typical of this species. In summer, this helps to reflect away the sunlight in order to keep the plant cool. The thick, fleshy stem and leaves act as water reservoirs in times of drought. A fully-grown plant can measure up to 2 m. The leaves are large, shiny, ovate, fleshy and toothed and fall off during the winter months. Cyphostemma juttae is a very sought-after plant as are other caudiciform plants such as baobabs, adeniums and tylecodons. They make superb container or open garden subjects in and around the garden, especially around swimmming pools and courtyards. Because this species grows mainly in the summer, plants must be kept dry during the colder winter months. They are ideal accent plants for a rockery, or may be planted in a large container on a sunny protected patio. The tree grape fares best in a loamy or sandy soil where drainage is optimal. Adding plenty of river sand and general compost will greatly improve drainage in heavy clay soils. Soil quality can also be improved dramatically by lightly working some bone meal into the soil. Although smelly, the effect on soils is quite remarkable. As a rule of thumb, use only organic products, such as those based on seaweed extract, especially if plants are going to be fed on a regular basis. Organic products won't burn or damage plants. As with all succulents, one must be careful not to over-water. These plants can survive with very little water, and too often plants die as a result of excessive water. If one lives in a very wet area, it is preferable to keep plants in large containers where they can be easily moved to a sheltered place. This also helps where severe frost occurs as cyphostemmas are not completely resistant to frost. The seeds of Cyphostemma juttae can be sown in summer (June to August). Although they take a considerable time to germinate, success is almost guaranteed. Propagation can also be undertaken by means of cuttings. Cuttings or truncheons can be rooted in coarse river sand. Again it is important to water with caution, especially after the cuttings have rooted. Mature plants are hardy to 25 degrees Fahrenheit. First scratch the seeds lightly a few times over sandpaper or a nail file. Then soak them in a cup of water for 24 hours. Plant 1 seed per pot. Use small containers about 2" (5 cm) wide. The soil should be well draining, but be able to hold water. A good mix is 1/2 regular potting soil and 1/2 perlite. Cover the seed with 1/2" (1 cm) of soil. Don't compress the soil. After filling the pots, water the soil so that it's uniformly moist. Keep the pots at about 65-75°F (18-24°C). Ensure that the soil surface doesn't dry out, but don't keep the soil soggy either. Germination is erratic and can take anywhere from days to months. Be patient, as most will eventually sprout. If you have a bag over the pots to retain moisture, remove it immediately after germination or the leaves can rot if they touch it. Once the seeds sprout, give them filtered sunlight initially until they are a little taller.

Price: 6.75 USD

Location: Manassas, Virginia

End Time: 2024-08-22T12:17:00.000Z

Shipping Cost: 3 USD