Adenia glauca care guide

Adenia glauca

Also known as: Adenia

Pets and children

Considered toxic

The whole plant, especially the sap and seeds, is considered toxic and can cause vomiting and diarrhea if eaten; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if ingested.

How often to water Adenia glauca

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Every 7 days
A summer grower: once in leaf, water thoroughly when the soil has dried through, as a guide, and keep it drier in early spring before it sprouts.
Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Every 14 days
As the leaves yellow and drop, stretch the gaps to about a week after the soil dries, as a guide.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Every 30 days
After leaf drop keep it nearly dry, with a light watering on a warm day about once a month as a guide.

Light and placement for Adenia glauca

Generally likes a bright, sunny spot, but the caudex scorches in strong direct sun, so shade the base in midsummer as a guide while the vines get sun and good airflow.

Overwintering Adenia glauca

Overwintering guide: 10°C (50°F) or above

Tender: move it to a bright spot indoors when nights fall below about 15°C, as a guide; it drops its leaves and rests dry, and staying above 10°C helps avoid damage.

Fertilizing and repotting Adenia glauca

Fertilizer

From May to September, diluted liquid fertilizer about once or twice a month as a guide; none while dormant or just after sprouting.

When to repot

Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)

Common problems with Adenia glauca

  • Watered through dormancy, the caudex rots.
  • Midsummer sun scorches the caudex surface, leaving sunken scars.
  • Left outside into the fall chill, it is damaged by the cold.

Tips for growing Adenia glauca

  • Resume watering only after new growth stirs in spring; this helps avoid root rot.
  • Train the vines on a support, or trim them back before dormancy, to keep the plant manageable.
  • Plants are male or female, so a single plant does not set seed.

These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.

Keep your plant log going

Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.

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