Bowiea volubilis
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsparagaceae
GenusBowiea
Zone10
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Bowiea volubilis, commonly known as the Climbing Onion or Sea Onion, is a unique bulbous plant native to seasonally dry tropical climates in Africa. It belongs to the family Asparagaceae and the genus Bowiea. This plant is a climbing bulbous geophyte, meaning it grows from a bulb and climbs using its twining stems. It has an interesting growth habit and can go dormant for a few months during the dry season.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Climbing Onion
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightIndirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity50%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Bowiea volubilis thrives in bright, indirect light and prefers moderate temperatures. It should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings. The plant enjoys moderate humidity and should be kept in a well-ventilated area. During its dormancy period, reduce watering significantly.Soil
This plant prefers well-draining loamy soil. A mix that includes sand or perlite can help improve drainage. It is important to avoid waterlogged conditions, as the bulb can rot if left in overly wet soil.Fertilizer
Bowiea volubilis benefits from a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize sparingly during the growing season, approximately once a month. Avoid fertilizing during the dormancy period.Repotting
Repotting should be done every 2-3 years or when the bulb outgrows its container. Choose a pot that allows for good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its current pot, shake off excess soil, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil mix.Propagation
Propagation is typically done through bulb division. This can be done during the dormancy period. Carefully separate the offsets from the main bulb and plant them in individual pots with well-draining soil.Pruning
Pruning is generally not required for Bowiea volubilis. However, you can trim back any dead or damaged stems to maintain the plant's appearance.Toxicity
Bowiea volubilis is toxic to pets and humans if ingested. The bulb and sap contain toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms. Handle with care and keep out of reach of children and pets.Additional
Bowiea volubilis is a fascinating plant with a unique growth habit. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile addition to any plant collection. Ensure it has a support structure to climb on, such as a trellis or stake, to encourage healthy growth.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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