Monadenium schubei ‘Tanzania Red’

Origin and Natural Habitat

Monadenium schubei is indigenous to Tanzania, but ‘Tanzania Red’ is a horticultural selection. 

Plant Characteristics

Monadenium schubei ‘Tanzania Red’ is a select red form of this species. The stems are much darker than the standard species, and both the leaves and stems may blush pink/red if given enough light.

Care Guide

Light
This Monadenium cultivar prefers semi-shade, or lightly filtered sun. In cultivation, a maximum of 40% shade cloth is recommended. This encourages stronger colouration and a more compact growth form while preventing sun damage. Do not plant in shade.

Soil
Monadenium schubei prefers a gritty, inorganic soil medium that drains well, such as Ibaraki Akadama or Hyuga pumice.

Water
Monadenium schubei must only be watered in spring and summer. This plant should receive a thorough soaking of water every 7-10 days during the active growing season, but only if the soil is mostly dry. Keep dry in autumn and winter.

Pot size
This species should be grown in a container that is very stable and about 3-5cm wider than the base of its stem. When small, it can be grown in 10-12cm pots, but with time will need a larger pot. When mature, it can be planted in a hanging basket if desired.

Temperature
This species’ ideal temperature ranges between 20 – 30°C. It is quite adaptable and can tolerate 5 – 40°C. It is sensitive to frost and should be protected in winter.

Humidity
This species prefers dry conditions and should not be kept in areas with more than 50% humidity.

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
Monadenium schubei grows actively in spring and summer, and their growth stops in autumn and winter. 

Propagation
Monadenium schubei are best propagated from seeds and cuttings.

Seed germination: Seeds should be sown in early spring. Plant them in a mix of coco peat and perlite, with some vermiculite, in an airtight container. Once most of the seeds have germinated, remove the lid of the container to allow airflow. Gently mist the seedlings every few days so that the soil does not dry out.

Cuttings: Using a sharp, sterile knife, remove a cutting from the main stem. If you take cuttings, allow the latex to dry and the wound to callous for two weeks before planting it in a gritty rooting medium.