Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange’: A Splash of Sunshine
Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange‘, also known as Gouevygie in Afrikaans, Golden Vygie in English, and Perennial Mesembryanthemum ‘Orange, belongs to the Aizoaceae (Ice Plant Family). This resilient and evergreen succulent shrublet graces gardens with its vibrant orange blooms. Its neat, compact form and small, succulent, finger-like leaves make it an appealing addition to any garden. This plant thrives in arid conditions, showcasing its striking flowers from August through spring, which not only beautify the landscape but also attract essential pollinators, including bees. It grows to about 12 in or 30cm high.
The name Lampranthus is derived from Latin and means “shining flowers.” This moniker perfectly encapsulates the brilliant orange blossoms of Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange’.
Cultivation of Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange’:
Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange’ is a low-maintenance succulent that flourishes in sunny and well-drained conditions. Here’s how to cultivate and care for this beautiful plant:
Sunlight: Plant your Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange’ in a location where it can bask in full sun. These succulents thrive in bright, direct sunlight.
Soil: Well-drained, sandy to loamy soil is ideal for this species. However, it is remarkably adaptable and can tolerate various soil types.
Watering: This succulent is drought-resistant, making it perfect for dry and arid regions. Water it sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Pests and Disease: Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange’ is generally resilient to pests and diseases. However, be on the lookout for common succulent pests such as mealybugs and aphids. If infestations occur, treat them with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Propagation:
You can propagate Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange’ through stem cuttings. Here’s a simple guide to propagate this beautiful succulent:
- Take stem cuttings from healthy, non-flowering shoots in either spring or fall.
- These cuttings should be around 3-5 inches in length.
- Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cuttings.
- Dip the cut ends in a rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
- Plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix.
- Keep the soil consistently moist and place the cuttings in a bright, warm location.
- Roots should develop within a few weeks.
- Once rooted, you can transplant the new plants into your garden or containers.
Additional Tips:
- Protect your Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange’ from frost by covering it with a frost blanket or bringing it indoors during cold spells.
- While these succulents are generally low-maintenance, they will benefit from occasional fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half or a quarter of the recommended strength every two weeks.
- To maintain a compact and bushy growth habit, consider trimming the plant by about one-third in the middle of the growing season.
- If you’re growing this succulent in containers, ensure you use a potting mix specifically designed for container plants.
With proper care and attention to its sunlight, soil, and watering needs, Lampranthus aureus ‘Orange’ will flourish and bring a burst of sunshine to your garden, gracing it with its vibrant orange blooms.
