Apocynacea Family

 Orbea variegata

Origin:  South Africa

Plant Description:  Green stems of up to 25 cm with speckled protuberances that resemble spines and more or less variegated of mulberry color. They branch abundantly forming groups.

 Flowers:   Of about 5 cm of diameter. Colors and forms tremendously variable.  Actually it is almost impossible to find two flowers equal in different plants. Their flowerings occur in summer and autumn.

In this species their flowers have a disagreeable scent to attract the flies.

The Orbea variegata has been classified as invasive plants in some zones of the South of Australia where it was introduced decades ago, moving nowadays other Australian native species.

Growth:  Vigorous.

Orbea variegata x Tavaresia barcklyii hybrid

 Culture:  Ph 6,5.  They resist some cold if it is in dry. Spaced irrigations letting dry the ground among them, and more generous at time of growth. It likes the fertile and organic substratum and accepts fertilizing at time of activity.

Phytosanitary Cares:  Preventive treatments with fungicides. The Orbeas is prone to undergo rotting of the neck.