Origin and Natural Habitat
Trichodiadema bulbosum is native to the Eastern and Western Cape of South Africa.
Plant Characteristics
Also known as the ‘African Bonsai’, this vygie species can be trained to have attractive ‘bonsai’ shapes.
Care Guide
Light
Trichodiadema bulbosum prefers a lightly shaded location in the greenhouse or full morning sun if kept outside. Avoid keeping the caudex in sun.
Soil
This species requires a very well-draining soil mixture with plenty of gritty components. A medium with akadama and pumice is preferred.
Water
In cultivation, Trichodiadema can be watered well during the warmer months.
Pot size
Trichodiadema bulbosum can grow quite large tuberous caudexes, and their pot size should accommodate for this. For the first 2-3 years of life, a 10cm pot will be sufficient. As they grow older, plant this species in a pot that is 5cm wider than its caudex to accommodate new growth. Deep pots are preferred, as they will grow more vigorously if their roots have room to expand into the soil.
Temperature
Trichodiadema’s ideal temperature ranges between 15 – 25Β°C. It can tolerate 1 β 40Β°C. The leaves are sensitive to frost.
Humidity
Trichodiadema are sensitive to humidity due to their semi-arid natural habitat, and particularly so when dormant. Make sure that your growing space has plenty of airflow.
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
Trichodiadema grows from early spring until the start of autumn, and is dormant in winter.
Propagation
Trichodiadema bulbosum is best propagated from seed.
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 some sifted coco peat. 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. The container should be relatively deep to accommodate their root systems.