Origin and Natural Habitat
Dorstenia hildebrandtii is native to several tropical African countries, with its range extending from The Democratic Republic of Congo to Mozambique.
Plant Characteristics
Dorstenia hildebrandtii is one of the rarer species in this genus. It has a globose (rounded) caudex at its base, with multiple elongated stems growing from the caudex. These stems usually do not branch.
Care Guide
Light
Dorstenia hildebrandtii prefers a shaded location in the greenhouse. Avoid keeping this species in direct sun. If kept outside, 60% shade cloth is preferred.
Soil
Dorstenia as a genus prefers a well-draining soil mixture that still retains some moisture. We recommend our EcoGrit Mix.
Water
In cultivation, Dorstenia can be watered well during the warmer months. During spring and summer, do not let the soil dry out completely, but rather keep it moist. During winter, it is important to stop watering completely as this is Dorstenia’s dormant period.
Pot size
Dorstenia hildebrandtii’s stems can grow up to 60cm tall, so the pot must be quite stable. A 10cm pot will be sufficient initially, but as the plant grows older, it should be planted in a pot that is 3-4cm wider than its caudex to accommodate new growth. The fibrous root systems can become quite extensive so a deeper pot is preferred.
Temperature
Dorstenia hildebrandtii’s ideal temperature ranges between 20 – 30°C. It can tolerate 5 – 40°C. This species is very sensitive to frost and should be protected during winter in frost-prone areas.
Humidity
Dorstenia prefers lots of humidity (60%+) during their growing season, but it is important to maintain good airflow. It is also extremely important to keep humidity as low as possible during winter when they are dormant, as this genus is prone to stem rot during dormancy.
Fertilizing
Use a half-strength diluted general liquid fertilizer only during the growing season. Do not fertilize during winter. Alternatively, a small amount of slow-release fertilizer will be sufficient.
Growing season
Dorstenia hildebrandtii only grows from early spring until late summer.
Propagation
This Dorstenia can be propagated through seed germination.
Seed germination: Seeds should be sown in early spring. Plant the seeds in a coco peat mix in an airtight container, and cover them with fine sand. Once most of the seeds have germinated, remove the lid of the container to allow airflow. Gently water the seedlings every few days so that the soil does not dry out.