cyphostemma mappia

Cyphostemma mappia, commonly known as the Mapou tree or bois mapou, is a species of caudiciform succulent plant endemic to Mauritius. It is sometimes called the “Mauritian baobab” due to its swollen, water-filled trunk that resembles a baobab tree, although it belongs to the grape family (Vitaceae) and is unrelated to true baobabs of Africa.

Description:

• It is a soft-stemmed tree with succulent green leaves on distinctive zig-zag branches.

• The tree can grow up to nearly 10 meters tall, with a large swollen trunk that stores water.

• It exhibits island gigantism and is the only Cyphostemma species to grow into a large tree.

• Unlike other Cyphostemma species, it has lost the vine-like tendrils.

• The wood is soft and fleshy, similar to that of true baobabs.

• Leaves are heterophyllous (different forms on the same plant), an adaptation related to historical grazing by giant tortoises.

• Flowers bloom from January to May, sometimes lasting until October.

• Fruits are small, red, velvety grapes

 

Habitat and Distribution:

• Originally widespread in dry and semi-dry forests of Mauritius, especially in mountainous and exposed areas.

• Now endangered and rare, surviving mainly on rocky slopes and higher mountains such as Trois Mamelles and Rempart.

• It was common around the town of Mapou, which gave the species its name.

Cultivation:

• It is slow-growing but increasingly used as an ornamental plant in Mauritius.

• Propagation is easy from cuttings or seeds.

• Prefers well-drained soil, some water, and lots of sun.

• Can be cultivated indoors in temperate climates with a minimum winter temperature of about 17°C (63°F).

• Suitable for bonsai cultivation due to its caudex form

Conservation:

The species is endangered but efforts are underway to propagate it for ornamental use in its native range

In summary, Cyphostemma mappia is a unique, endemic succulent tree of Mauritius with a striking baobab-like appearance, adapted to dry environments, and valued both for its ecological rarity and ornamental potential.

Propagation:

To propagate Cyphostemma Mappiaa from cuttings, follow these expert steps:

Select Healthy Stems: Choose healthy, semi-woody stems about 4 to 6 inches long from the parent plant during its active growing season, preferably spring or early summer

Make a Clean Cut: Use sterilized, sharp pruning shears or a knife to cut just below a leaf node at a 45-degree angle. Ensure the cutting has at least two to three sets of leaves and one growth node, as roots will develop from these nodes

Prepare the cutting : Remove the leaves from the lower part of the cutting to avoid rot but keep some leaves at the top for photosynthesis

Callus Formation: Let the cuttings dry and form a callus on the cut end by placing them in a warm, dry, shaded area for about a week. This step is crucial to prevent rot and encourage root development

Optional Rooting Hormone : Dip the callused end in rooting hormone powder or gel to enhance rooting success and speed up the process, though Cyphostemma can root without it

Planting Medium : Insert the cuttings into a well-draining potting mix such as a mix of sand, perlite, or a soil-less medium. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged to prevent rot

Environment : Place the cuttings in a bright location with indirect sunlight and maintain a warm temperature around 20-25°C (68-77°F). Keep humidity moderate by misting lightly if needed but avoid overwatering

Patience and Care : Rooting may take several weeks to months. Monitor the cuttings for new growth, indicating successful rooting. Avoid disturbing them too soon

This method ensures a high success rate for propagating Cyphostemma Mappia from cuttings, allowing you to grow new plants that retain the characteristics of the parent