The Huernia [hew-ERN-ee-uh] genus includes perennial succulents from Southern and Eastern Africa.
Although they look like they belong in the cactus family, Huernia, first described in 1810, is in the Apocynaceae family.
There are roughly 45 species in the Huernia genus.
Some popular varieties include:
- Huernia zebrina
- Huernia pillansii
- Huernia primulina
Huernia plants can be grown anywhere, including in greenhouses, patio container plants, or garden beds.
Many people keep Huernias as indoor houseplants, but some varieties are known to have stinky flowers, so be aware of that when purchasing your Huernia plant.
Huernia plants are known for their unique stems that often have different shapes and colors and their fascinating flowers.
Huernias are easy plants for beginners as long as you avoid overwatering and follow essential lighting and temperature requirements.
The different Huernia species also go by several common names, including:
- Huernia zebrina (Lifesaver, Lifebuoy plant)
- Huernia hystrix (Porcupine Huernia)
- Huernia schneideriana (Red Dragon Flower)
- Huernia keniensis (Kenyan Dragon Flower)
- Huernia pillansii (Cocklebur)
Quick Facts On Huernia
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Light: Morning light, afternoon shade
- Temperature: Between 50° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit
- Water: Water moderately
- Fertilizer: Weak low-nitrogen and high-phosphorous fertilizer
- Propagation: Cuttings or seeds
- Common Problems: Mealybugs, overwatering
Huernia Care
What Does Huernia Plant Look Like, And How Big Does It Grow?
Huernia plants are small, low-growing succulents. For example, Huernia zebrina has short cucumber-like stems that grow to 5″ inches.
These succulent plants also grow outward before curving upwards.
When Does Huernia Plant Flower? Are The Flowers Fragrant?
One of the main features of the Huernia plant is its beautiful flowers.
Unfortunately, the beautiful flowers often have a foul toxic smell that lasts throughout the flowering season.
Huernia’s flowering season begins in late summer and goes through September.
Thankfully, the smelly odor doesn’t spread too quickly, so many keep their Huernia plant indoors.
In addition, most gardeners find that you have to get close to the plant to smell the foul odor.
What Are The Lighting Needs And Temperature Requirements?
Huernia plants prefer moderate light, such as bright morning light with afternoon shade.
In their native habitat, they grow under other plants and trees, so they are not used to direct afternoon sun.
Too much afternoon sun can burn the stems, giving them a reddish color.
Conversely, if the plant isn’t exposed to enough light, the plant will appear leggy and weak.
Huernia plants prefer temperatures between 50° to 80° degrees Fahrenheit.
Although they can tolerate temperatures down to 40° degrees Fahrenheit, they must not be exposed to rain or watering during that time.
Conversely, they can tolerate temperatures up to 100 degrees if they are not exposed to full sun.
How And When To Water And Fertilize The Huernia Plant?
During the winter, Huernia plants are dormant, so they don’t need water. However, during the spring and summer, make sure to water your plants regularly.
Allow the soil to dry out about an inch before watering again. Allowing the top inch of soil to dry out will prevent overwatering and root rot.
If you live in an area with hard water, it’s a good idea to water your plants with reverse osmosis water or rainwater.
Watering with RO water or rainwater prevents a buildup of minerals in the soil.
During spring and summer, feed your Huernia plant with a weak low-nitrogen and high-phosphorous fertilizer. Feeding should be done monthly during the growing season.
Some gardeners mix small amounts of bone and blood meals into the potting soil at the beginning of the growing season to jumpstart the plant with nutrients.
Do not fertilize during the winter months as the plant is in dormancy.
What Is The Best Soil For Huernia Cactus, and When Should You Transplant?
Huernia plants do best with well-draining soil. Many gardeners find that adding perlite or pumice to a mix of sand and organic mulch aids in draining excess moisture and prevents root rot.
In addition, Huernias like shallow containers, especially shallow clay pots, to permit the soil to drain correctly.
Does the Huernia Cactus Need Special Grooming Or Maintenance?
Huernia plants are low-maintenance, so grooming is only necessary when repotting them.
To encourage new growth, remove the oldest stems from the plant. Removing the old stems will help the plant live for many years.
How To Propagate Lifesaver Cactus?
Most people find propagating Huernia plants easy, especially with stem cuttings.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Cut a healthy stem at the base of the plant using a sharp knife or pruning shears.
- Place the cutting on a counter to dry overnight.
- Dip the cut side of the stem in rooting hormone.
- Place the cutting in well-draining soil in a small pot.
- Be careful not to overwater your cutting; water sparingly.
When the cutting takes root, you have successfully propagated your Huernia plant!
Huernia Pests And Diseases
Huernia plants aren’t susceptible to many pests or diseases, but you may find the occasional mealybug infestation.
Because mealybugs suck sap from the roots and stems, you must treat the plant immediately with a proper insecticide.
It’s a good idea to check your plants weekly for mealybugs or other pests to prevent a harmful infestation.
Suggested Huernia Cactus Uses
Huernia plants are attractive and unique succulents that look great on their own or grouped with other succulents or cacti in a shallow, wide container.
Because Huernia plants are known for being low maintenance, they can be used as decoration indoors, in greenhouses, in outdoor gardens, or as patio decor.
However, if you are planting Huernias with other succulents, give Huernias plenty of room, as some varieties have stems that grow sideways.
In addition, make sure to factor in your lighting when you plant Huernias. They do best in the morning sun with afternoon shade, so if you are growing outdoors, be mindful of where the afternoon sun is.
Lastly, if you choose a Huernia plant with a poisonous fragrance, you may not want to have this plant as a welcoming plant in your entryway to your home or office.