Stephania Glandulifera | Stephania | Lamiaceae

Stephania Glandulifera: A Unique Climbing Succulent

Stephania glandulifera is a fascinating climbing succulent that belongs to the Menispermaceae family. Native to Central and Eastern Himalaya to Thailand, this plant thrives in the wet tropical biome. It is known for its extensive climbing habit and large tuberous root, which can grow up to 40 centimeters in diameter. The entire plant can reach up to five meters in height.

The leaves of Stephania glandulifera are simple, alternate, and arranged spirally on the stem. They are suborbicular, ovate, and peltate, with a diameter of up to 30 centimeters. The flowers are greenish and dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are borne on separate plants. The roots are large tubers with fibrous roots below, and they come in various irregular shapes.

This unique succulent is highly sought after by succulent enthusiasts due to its distinctive caudex and climbing habit. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, preferring well-draining soil and moderate watering during the growing season. Bright, indirect light is ideal for its growth, making it a perfect addition to warm and humid climates.

Aside from its aesthetic appeal, Stephania glandulifera has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It contains various alkaloids, including stepharine, which has shown antitumor activity. However, it is important to note that the plant is toxic and should not be ingested.

In conclusion, Stephania glandulifera is a captivating succulent with a unique climbing habit and impressive caudex. It is a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts and has been used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. If you are looking for a distinctive addition to your succulent collection, consider adding Stephania glandulifera to your garden.

Physical Characteristics and Care Tips

Stephania glandulifera is a large climbing shrub or woody vine that belongs to the Menispermaceae family. It thrives in the wet tropical biome and is native to Central and Eastern Himalaya to Thailand.

This climbing succulent grows from a large tuberous root, with a caudex that can reach up to 40 centimeters in diameter. The entire plant can grow up to five meters in height. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and arranged spirally on the stem. They are suborbicular, ovate, and peltate, with the petiole attached to the lower surface of the leaf blade.

Stephania glandulifera is dioecious, meaning it has separate male and female flowers. The flowers are greenish and are produced in clusters. The fruit is a red drupe when ripe.

As a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts, Stephania glandulifera requires well-draining soil and moderate watering. It thrives in bright, indirect light and can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It is relatively low-maintenance, making it suitable for both novice and experienced succulent growers.

Overall, Stephania glandulifera is a captivating succulent that adds interest to any collection. Its climbing habit and large caudex make it stand out among other succulents. With proper care and attention, this plant can thrive and become a beautiful addition to your home or garden.

Habitat, Distribution, and Medicinal Uses

Stephania glandulifera is a climbing succulent that belongs to the Menispermaceae family. It primarily grows in the wet tropical biome, with its native range spanning from Central and Eastern Himalaya to Thailand. This extensive climber grows from a large tuberous root, with a caudex that can reach up to 40 centimeters in diameter. The entire plant can grow up to five meters in height.

The leaves of Stephania glandulifera are simple, alternate, and arranged spirally on the stem. They are suborbicular, ovate, and peltate, with the petiole attached to the lower surface of the blade. The flowers are greenish and dioecious, with male and female flowers borne on separate plants.

Stephania glandulifera is a popular choice among succulent enthusiasts due to its unique caudex and climbing habit. It thrives in well-draining soil and moderate watering. This succulent prefers partial shade to full sun and can be grown both indoors and outdoors.

Stephania species are slender woody or herbaceous climbing vines, and their rootstock is sometimes tuberous. They are dioecious, and their leaves are simple, alternate, and suborbicular. The tuberous root of Stephania glandulifera is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, cough, and diarrhea.

If you are looking for a unique and interesting addition to your succulent collection, consider adding Stephania glandulifera. Its climbing habit and caudex make it a standout plant that is sure to impress.

Cultivation and Care Tips

Stephania glandulifera is a climbing succulent that belongs to the Menispermaceae family. It primarily grows in the wet tropical biome, with its native range spanning from Central and Eastern Himalaya to Thailand. This extensive climber grows from a large tuberous root, with a caudex that can reach up to 40 centimeters in diameter. The entire plant can grow up to five meters in height.

The leaves of Stephania glandulifera are simple, alternate, and arranged spirally on the stem. They are suborbicular, ovate, and peltate, with the petiole attached to the lower surface of the blade. The flowers are greenish and dioecious, with male and female flowers borne on separate plants. The roots are large tubers with fibrous roots below, and they come in various irregular shapes.

Stephania glandulifera is a unique and beautiful succulent that is perfect for any succulent enthusiast. It is a rare and exotic plant that is not commonly found in gardens. It requires a warm and humid environment to thrive, making it an ideal plant for indoor cultivation. It is also a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal watering and fertilization.

If you are looking for a unique and exotic plant to add to your collection, Stephania glandulifera is an excellent choice. Its climbing habit and large tuberous root make it a fascinating plant to observe and care for. With proper care and attention, this plant can thrive and become a beautiful addition to your home or garden.

Medicinal Uses of Stephania glandulifera

Stephania glandulifera is a climbing succulent that belongs to the Menispermaceae family. It is native to Central and Eastern Himalaya to Thailand, primarily growing in the wet tropical biome at elevations ranging from 1300-2100 meters.

This plant is a large climbing shrub or woody vine that can reach up to five meters in height. Its roots are large tubers with fibrous roots below, and they come in various irregular shapes. The caudex can grow up to 40 centimeters in diameter, making it an impressive sight.

Stephania glandulifera is dioecious, meaning it has separate male and female flowers. The flowers are greenish and not particularly showy. However, the leaves are arranged spirally on the stem and are peltate, with a diameter of up to 30 centimeters.

While not commonly grown as a houseplant, Stephania glandulifera can thrive in a greenhouse or conservatory. It requires well-draining soil and should be watered sparingly. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and should be protected from direct sunlight.

In traditional medicine, Stephania glandulifera has been used to treat various ailments, including fever, cough, and diarrhea. However, it is important to note that the plant contains toxic alkaloids and should not be consumed without proper preparation.

Overall, Stephania glandulifera is a fascinating succulent that is sure to impress anyone who sees it. Its large size and unique growth habit make it a standout addition to any collection of succulents and other unusual plants.