What are the propagation methods for the succulent antler begonia?

The succulent antler begonia (Mestoklema tuberosum) is easy to propagate; both seed sowing and cuttings can succeed, but cuttings are generally the main method. When taking cuttings, select mature, robust branches, remove the lower leaves, insert them into sandy soil, and place them in a spot with scattered light and good ventilation. After they have rooted, they still need to be cared for according to the following methods.

1. How should the succulent antler begonia be cared for?

1. Light

The antler begonia tends to grow leggy when it lacks sunlight, but in summer it needs appropriate shading, and it must not be exposed to strong sun after watering, otherwise the leaves easily crack and leave unsightly sunburn spots.

2. Watering

The antler begonia tends to grow leggy when waterlogged, but it also easily develops wrinkled leaves when short of water, so watering is best done according to how dry or moist the potting soil is. Compared with other succulents that are watered 2-3 times a month, the antler begonia can be watered 3-4 times a month.

3. Temperature

The antler begonia prefers a warm, dry environment with plenty of sunlight; it is not cold-tolerant, tolerates drought, and fears high temperatures. In summer, pay attention to shading, otherwise the surface easily wrinkles. In winter, the temperature should preferably not fall below 15°C.

4. Pruning

Repot every spring and prune the whole plant. After pruning, let it dry for 2-3 days until the wounds heal.

2. Population status

The antler begonia has a narrow habitat range. Its place of origin has long been threatened by overgrazing, leading to a loss of shrub density and biodiversity. At the same time, soil erosion is caused by livestock trampling. Many shrubs that could provide cover for succulents have been destroyed, leaving these succulents completely exposed to the external environment and declining at an extremely rapid rate. Field surveys indicate that the decline in antler begonia populations is caused by livestock farming.