The “lips plant succulent” is a captivating addition to any plant collection, recognized for its distinctive floral display. Its common name comes from the unusual shape and appearance of its blooms.
Understanding the Lips Plant Succulent
The “lips plant” is a Huernia species, often Huernia zebrina or Huernia insigniflora. These plants are not true cacti but are succulents belonging to the Apocynaceae family, known as Stapeliads. The “lips” refer to the flower, not the foliage. Huernia originates from arid regions of Eastern and Southern Africa and Arabia, including South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
Huernia zebrina flowers are five-pointed and star-shaped, typically yellow with wine-red or brownish zebra stripes. A raised, glossy, dark-red or purple ring (annulus) encircles the center, resembling a lifesaver candy, hence its other name, “Lifesaver Plant.” These flowers attract specific pollinators, such as flies, by emitting an unpleasant scent.
Caring for Your Lips Plant Succulent
Light Requirements
Huernia succulents thrive in bright, indirect light, mimicking their natural habitat beneath shrubs. Indoors, a south- or east-facing window provides ideal conditions, avoiding harsh midday sun. Too much direct sunlight can cause stems to turn reddish or purple, or lead to scorching. Insufficient light results in weak, stretched growth and fewer flowers.
Watering Needs
Huernia succulents are prone to root rot from overwatering. Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, typically to a depth of at least one to two inches. During the active growing season (spring through summer), water thoroughly until it drains from the pot. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy, as the plant’s water needs decrease.
Soil and Potting
Huernia succulents need well-draining soil to prevent root moisture accumulation. Use a succulent or cactus potting mix, or amend regular potting soil with perlite, pumice, or coarse sand. Pots must have drainage holes. Unglazed pots like terracotta are beneficial for faster moisture evaporation. Shallow containers are also preferred because their roots can experience dieback during cool-season dormancy, and shallow pots help the soil dry out quickly.
Temperature and Humidity
Huernia succulents prefer warm temperatures, ideally 10°C to 27°C (50°F to 80°F) during the growing season. They are sensitive to frost and cold temperatures below 10°C (50°F). These succulents are adapted to low-humidity environments. Ensure good air circulation and adequate spacing between plants to help reduce humidity-related problems and prevent fungal issues.
Fertilizing
Huernia plants do not require heavy feeding. During their active growing season (spring and summer), apply a balanced liquid succulent fertilizer monthly at half strength. Avoid excessive fertilization, especially during winter or the plant’s dormant phase, as their nutritional requirements decrease.
Propagating Lips Plant Succulents
Propagating Huernia succulents is done through stem cuttings. Use a clean, sharp knife or scissors to cut a healthy stem section from the parent plant.
After taking the cutting, allow it to dry in a well-ventilated area for a few days until a callus forms, preventing rot. Once healed, insert the dried cutting into a small pot with well-draining succulent or cactus potting mix. Lightly moisten the soil, ensuring it’s not soggy, and place the pot in bright, indirect light. Roots typically develop within a few weeks, and new growth indicates successful rooting, after which you can resume a regular watering schedule.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Overwatering is a common problem for Huernia succulents, leading to root rot. Symptoms include mushy stems, yellowing leaves, and a general decline in plant health. Adjust your watering schedule to allow the soil to dry thoroughly between waterings, and ensure proper drainage. If root rot is severe, remove affected parts and repot in fresh, dry soil.
Insufficient light can cause the plant to stretch and appear pale, a condition known as etiolation. Move the plant to a brighter location with indirect sunlight to promote compact growth. Conversely, too much direct sun can lead to yellow or brown leaves or reddish stems.
Pests are generally not a severe concern for Huernia succulents, but mealybugs can occasionally appear. Inspect your plant regularly. If detected, treat them by manually removing them, or by applying insecticidal soap, a diluted solution of rubbing alcohol, or neem oil.
A lack of flowering can occur from insufficient light or incorrect watering. Ensure the plant receives adequate bright, indirect light and a consistent watering regimen during its growing season to encourage blooming.