Troubleshooting
Caralluma acutangula problems — and how to fix them
Caralluma acutangula (Caralluma acutangula) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Stem rot
Soft, dark patches spreading along or at the base of stems from overwatering or winter wetness. Cut well above the rot, callus, and re-root firm sections in dry gritty mix.
Floppy, stretched stems
Tall stems lean and lose colour in insufficient light. Move to a brighter, sunnier position and stake if needed while re-establishing firm growth.
Mealybugs
White cottony pests cluster along stem angles and on roots. Treat with isopropyl alcohol and check the root ball for root mealybugs.
Cold damage
Translucent, water-soaked, collapsing tissue after exposure to temperatures near or below 5°C. Keep above 10°C in winter and away from cold draughts.
Prevent caralluma acutangula problems before they start
Most caralluma acutangula issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for caralluma acutangula in general rather than its problems? Read the full caralluma acutangula care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Caralluma acutangula problems — FAQ
Why is my caralluma acutangula stem rot?
Soft, dark patches spreading along or at the base of stems from overwatering or winter wetness. Cut well above the rot, callus, and re-root firm sections in dry gritty mix.
Why is my caralluma acutangula floppy, stretched stems?
Tall stems lean and lose colour in insufficient light. Move to a brighter, sunnier position and stake if needed while re-establishing firm growth.
Why is my caralluma acutangula mealybugs?
White cottony pests cluster along stem angles and on roots. Treat with isopropyl alcohol and check the root ball for root mealybugs.
Why is my caralluma acutangula cold damage?
Translucent, water-soaked, collapsing tissue after exposure to temperatures near or below 5°C. Keep above 10°C in winter and away from cold draughts.