Dorstenia Lancifolia

Flying saucer plant

Origin

Northeast Africa

Family

Moraceae

Description

Dorstenia Lancifolia is characterized by its unique, typically elongated lance-shaped leaves, which inspire its species name “lancifolia.” These leaves are arranged either in a rosette formation or sparsely along short stems, exhibiting a subtly glossy surface with a fine texture. Its most notable attribute is the robust, bulbous caudex, frequently dark-hued and textured, which distinguishes this species.

The plant features a robust, conical trunk ranging from dark green to mahogany in color, reaching up to 15 centimeters in diameter and 30 to 40 centimeters in height. Mature sections often display peeling bark. The stem is marked by distinct, prominent round scars from petioles, inflorescences, and stipules arranged in a spiral pattern.

Often referred to as the flying saucer plant, Dorstenia Lancifolia is recognized for its distinctive disk-shaped floral structures known as hypanthodiums. These fruiting bodies resemble flowers but are unique to the species. The plant produces small, subtle flowers that typically remain concealed beneath the foliage.

Environment

Dorstenia needs bright light or partial to full shade, with warm temperatures and a well-drained soil mix that must not remain soggy for too long.  During the growing season, the plants appreciate a fair amount of water but allow the soil to dry slightly between watering, making sure that they never dry out completely.  They have to be kept in a rather high air humidity.  They are fertilized once during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer diluted to ½ the strength recommended on the label. During the winter months they tend to go at least partially dormant and will exhibit some leaf loss. During this period, they should be given very little water.

Landscape

Dorstenia crispa is pretty versatile, having various landscape uses. This plant will look absolutely gorgeous in rock gardens, succulent gardens, desert gardens, and containers. It is also a common indoor ornamental as a bonsai.