Lesotho Kniphofia Glumicalyx flanaganii

👤 Non-toxic to humans

🐾 Non-toxic to pets

🌸 Blooming

🍪 Not edible

‍🌱 Hard-care

ABOUT

Glumicalyx flanaganii, commonly known as the nodding chocolate flower, presents a striking appearance with a unique aromatic draw. The plant is characterized by its upright stems that bear dark green, ovate to lance-shaped leaves with smooth margins. These leaves provide a luscious backdrop for the distinct chocolate-scented flowers. The flowers of the nodding chocolate flower are noteworthy, displaying a rich brown to maroon color that resembles the look and smell of chocolate. They are tubular and flared at the mouth, hanging in a nodding fashion which contributes to the common name of the plant. These blooms typically emerge in clusters at the ends of the stems, forming a visually appealing contrast against the green foliage. Setting the nodding chocolate flower apart from many others are the bracts that subtend each bloom. These can be a shade of green or may take on a hue that echoes the florals, offering a layered look to the inflorescence. The overall effect of the nodding chocolate flower is one of an ornate and pleasantly aromatic display, making it a favorite among gardeners who appreciate unique and sensory-stimulating flora.

Plant Info

Care

Common Problems

About this plant

Names
- Family
  Scrophulariaceae
- Synonyms
  Lesotho Notsi
- Common names
  Glumicalyx flanaganii.
Toxicity
- To humans
  Glumicalyx flanaganii, commonly known as the Natal droplet, has limited information available regarding its toxicity to humans. It is essential to exercise caution with unfamiliar plants as they may contain compounds that can be harmful if ingested. If a plant is considered toxic, symptoms of poisoning can vary but might include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, neurological effects or organ failure. Without specific data on the Natal droplet's toxicity, it's prudent to avoid ingesting any part of this plant.
- To pets
  Glumicalyx flanaganii, known as the Natal droplet, is not widely documented for its toxicity to pets. However, the approach with pets should be one of caution, similar to humans. Toxic plants can cause symptoms ranging from mild gastrointestinal upset to severe poisoning, resulting in symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, or worse consequences like kidney or liver damage. Until the toxicity of the Natal droplet is better understood, it is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting any part of the plant.
Characteristics
- Life cycle
  Perennials
- Foliage type
  Evergreen
- Color of leaves
  Green
- Flower color
  Orange
- Height
  2 feet (0.61 meters)
- Spread
  2 feet (0.61 meters)
- Plant type
  Shrub
- Hardiness zones
  7
- Native area
  South Africa

Benefits

General Benefits
- Aesthetic appeal - Glumicalyx flanaganii, commonly known as the Knotweed, adds visual interest to gardens with its unique flowers and foliage.
- Biodiversity support - It can attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to the health of local ecosystems.
- Erosion control - The plant's root system can help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, making it useful for planting on slopes.
- Drought resistance - Knotweed is capable of surviving in dry conditions, making it suitable for water-wise gardens and landscapes.
- Low maintenance - This plant typically requires minimal care once established, making it a convenient choice for gardeners of all skill levels.
Medical Properties
- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying Qualities
This plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses
- Glumicalyx flanaganii, commonly known as Knotweed, can be used in floral arrangements due to its unique inflorescence and shape, providing a distinct aesthetic to bouquets.
- Knotweed, with its ornamental appeal, is often cultivated in gardens for its attractive flowers which add a splash of color to garden beds and borders.
- The plant is sometimes employed in educational settings, such as botany programs, to study plant morphology and taxonomy due to its distinctive features.
- Enthusiasts of natural dyes may experiment with Knotweed, as various plant parts may yield dyes for textiles or crafts.
- Although not commonly used for this purpose, the fibrous stems of Knotweed could potentially be researched for use in making paper or eco-friendly packaging materials.
- The consistent shape and texture of Knotweed leaves could serve as a natural stencil for artistic purposes or in designing patterns.
- Knotweed may offer habitat and food for certain insect species, playing a role in garden ecology by promoting biodiversity.
- Some cultures might use the dried plant of Knotweed as a natural decoration or ornamentation, especially in rustic or country-themed decor.
- During festive seasons, Knotweed could be incorporated into natural wreaths or garlands for its interesting visual texture and color composition.
- The natural resilience of Knotweed in certain climates can be advantageous for erosion control or in areas where other plants struggle to survive.

Interesting Facts

Feng Shui
The Kaffirboom is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign Compitability
The Kaffirboom is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism
- No established symbolism: Glumicalyx flanaganii, commonly known as the Kei Mouth Bells, does not have widespread recognition or documented symbolism in various cultures or historical contexts. Its symbolic meanings are not well-defined in the way that more commonly known plants like roses or lilies are.

💧

Every 10 days

Water

☀️

500 - 2500 Lux

Light

💦️

Humidity

🪴

Every year

Repotting

🌱️

Spring to Summer

Propogation

✂️️

As needed

Pruning

Water
The Chocolate Soldier plant should be watered thoroughly, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Typically, this equates to once a week, but the frequency may need to increase during hot, dry periods. It's best to water with about 16-24 ounces of water each time for a standard pot size, ensuring even soil moisture. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it's crucial to check the soil moisture before adding more water. During winter, reduce watering to every other week as the plant's growth slows down.
Light
The Chocolate Soldier plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate some partial shade. Avoid direct sunlight in the afternoon as it can scorch the leaves. A spot near an east or north-facing window is ideal, providing the plant with the gentle morning sun and shade during the intense afternoon heat. If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights to supplement.
Temperature
The Chocolate Soldier plant prefers temperatures between 60°F and 75°F for optimal growth. It can withstand a minimum temperature of 50°F, but should not be exposed to temperatures below this as it could damage the plant. Keep the plant away from drafts and sudden temperature changes to maintain a consistent environment.
Pruning
The Chocolate Soldier plant benefits from pruning to shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. Prune in early spring before new growth begins. Cut back leggy stems and remove any dead or damaged foliage. Pruning frequency is generally once per year, but if the plant grows vigorously, a light trim may be necessary mid-season.
Cleaning
As needed
Soil
Nodding Chocolate Flower thrives in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-7.5. A mix of loamy soil, peat, and coarse sand is ideal, ensuring good aeration and moisture retention without waterlogging.
Repotting
Nodding Chocolate Flower should be repotted every 2-3 years or when it outgrows its pot. Spring is the best time to repot to minimize stress on the plant.
Humidity & Misting
Nodding Chocolate Flower prefers moderate humidity levels. Aim for humidity around 40-50% for optimal growth without the leaves becoming too damp or encouraging fungal issues.
Suitable locations
- Indoor
  Keep Nodding Chocolate Flower in bright, indirect light indoors.
- Outdoor
  Plant Nodding Chocolate Flower in a sunny or semi-shade spot.
- Hardiness zone
  7-10 USDA
Life cycle
Glumicalyx flanaganii, commonly known as Nutmeg Bush, starts its life cycle when its seeds germinate, usually requiring stratification to mimic winter conditions for successful germination. The seedlings then grow into juvenile plants, developing their characteristic foliage and beginning the process of photosynthesis. As the Nutmeg Bush matures, it enters the vegetative stage, where it continues to grow and expand its root system to gather nutrients and water. Once it reaches maturity, the plant begins its reproductive stage, producing distinctive flowers that attract pollinators, leading to pollination and subsequent seed formation. After fertilization, seed capsules develop, eventually drying and releasing seeds into the environment, thus completing the life cycle. Throughout its lifespan, the Nutmeg Bush may also propagate asexually through cuttings, which can root and grow into new plants, a process that can occur at various points during the active growing season.
Propogation
- Propogation time
  Spring to Summer
- The most popular method of propagation for Glumicalyx flanaganii, commonly known as the nodding chocolate flower, is through seed sowing. Seeds can be collected once the pods dry on the plant. Sow the seeds in a well-drained seed starting mix, lightly covering them with soil. This should be done in the springtime after the risk of frost has passed. Water the seeds gently but thoroughly, and place them in a warm, sunny location. Germination can take several weeks, so patience is important. Once seedlings have developed a couple of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the garden, spacing them about 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 centimeters) apart to allow sufficient room for growth.