Introducing the red dragon flower, known as Huernia schneideriana. This red dragon is also known as Ceropegia 'Red Dragon Flower'. The species name "schneideriana" is in honor of Gustav Schneider, a German botanist who made significant contributions to the study of succulent plants.

Huernia schneideriana is a visually appealing succulent that grows glaucous green stem clumps and is often twisted along the stem. The stems are erect, prostrate, or pendulous and can grow up to 18 inches long and 0.6 inches wide.

As with many succulent plants, Huernia schneideriana has adapted to survive in arid and desert-like conditions.

Its fleshy stems and leaves store water, allowing it to withstand long periods of drought.

This adaptation has made it a resilient and low-maintenance plant for both indoor and outdoor cultivation. Its ability to thrive in various conditions makes it a versatile option for any gardener.

The flowers of Huernia schneideriana are bell-shaped; they are truly a sight to behold during the fall. These red dragon flowers are usually small in size, measuring around 1 to 2 inches in diameter. With a deep purple-black center, their exterior is brownish-red, while their interior is velvety reddish-black. The bell-shaped flowers have a charming and exotic appearance, making them a beautiful addition to any succulent collection.

To propagate this beautiful succulent can be done through stem cuttings. To grow a red dragon flower, cut a healthy stem and let it dry for a few days. Once calloused, plant the cutting in well-draining soil or a mix of cactus soil and perlite. Keep the soil lightly moist and place it in a warm, bright location. With time and care, the cutting will develop roots and grow into a new flower, allowing you to expand your collection and share its beauty.

Huernia schneideriana is a part of the Apocynaceae family, and was once considered a natural hybrid of Huernia verekeri and Huernia aspera, but some authorities now recognized it as a legitimate species native to Tanzania. There are also other popular Huernia varieties like Huernia thuretii and Huernia procumbens.

Watering Needs

Like other succulents, the red dragon flower plant is adapted to survive in arid conditions and has the ability to store water in its leaves and stems. This means that it prefers dry soil and can be prone to root rot if overwatered.

To properly water your red dragon flower, it's important to follow a "soak and dry" method. This means that you should thoroughly water the dragon flower plant until water drains out of the bottom of the pot, and then allow the soil to completely dry out before watering again. The frequency of watering will depend on various factors such as the temperature, humidity, and size of the succulent, so it's best to check the soil moisture level before watering.

In the spring and summer, during the growing season, you may need to water your red dragon flower more frequently as it actively grows. However, in the fall and winter, during the dormant period, you should reduce the frequency of watering to prevent overwatering and potential root issues.

Remember, it's always better to underwater than to overwater Huernia succulents like the red dragon flower. If in doubt, it's safer to wait for the soil to dry out before giving it a good watering. This will help ensure the health and longevity of your Huernia schneideriana.

Light Requirement

When growing your red dragon flower indoors, a sunny window sill or a spot near a south-facing window can be an ideal spot. If you notice that the leaves are turning yellow or brown, it may be an indication that Huernia schneideriana is getting too much direct sunlight. In that case, you can move it slightly away from the window or provide some shade during the hottest parts of the day.

For outdoor cultivation, the red dragon flower thrives in bright, full sunlight or partial shade. It loves soaking up the sunshine, but direct, intense sunlight can be too harsh for its delicate leaves. Therefore, it's best to place your red dragon flower in a location where it can receive bright, filtered light throughout the day.

On the other hand, if your red dragon flower is not getting enough light, it may become leggy and pale in color. In this case, you can try placing it in a brighter location or supplementing its light with a grow light to ensure it receives adequate light for healthy growth.

Remember, finding the right balance of light is crucial for the well-being of your red dragon flower, Huernia schneideriana. Providing it with bright, indirect light will help it thrive and showcase its beautiful flowers.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

The red dragon flowers Huernia schneideriana favor very airy, sandy soil that drains well. Planting them in ordinary soil will result in compacted roots, stunted growth, and most likely root rot. Instead, make or buy a well-draining potting mix, or ideally use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your red dragon flowers thrive.

When it comes to fertilizing your red dragon flower, it's best to do so sparingly. Succulents, like the red dragon flower, are not heavy feeders and can be sensitive to excess nutrients. During the growing season, which is typically spring, you can use a balanced (5-10-5) NPK, water-soluble fertilizer specifically formulated for succulents. Dilute the fertilizer to half or quarter strength and apply it once a year. However, it's important to avoid fertilizing during the dormant period in the fall and winter.

Remember, over-fertilizing can lead to root burn and other issues, so it's better to err on the side of caution and fertilize less frequently than too often. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging and adjust accordingly based on the needs of your specific Huernia plant. 

Hardiness Zone & More 

When growing indoors, your red dragon flower thrives in warm conditions. Ideally, it prefers daytime temperatures between 70°F and 85°F and nighttime temperatures around 60°F to 65°F. It can tolerate slightly higher temperatures, but it's important to provide some shade or protection from intense, direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day to prevent leaf burns. 

For outdoor cultivation, it is generally suitable for hardiness zones 9 to 11, which means it can tolerate temperatures down to around 20°F or higher. However, it's important to protect your red dragon flower plant from frost and freezing temperatures, as prolonged exposure to cold can damage or even kill the plant. 

As for humidity, the red dragon flower is well-adapted to dry and arid environments. It can tolerate low humidity levels, making it a great choice for drier climates or indoor environments with lower humidity. However, it's important to note that providing some occasional humidity, such as misting the leaves or placing a tray of water nearby, can be beneficial, especially during the hotter months or in dry indoor environments.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Huernia schneideriana is truly a captivating and unique succulent. With its vibrant red color, dragon-like flower shape, and fascinating history, it's no wonder why it's a favorite among succulent enthusiasts. Whether you choose to grow it indoors or outdoors, providing it with the right conditions, such as well-draining soil, bright indirect sunlight, and temperatures within its preferred range, will help it thrive. With its low maintenance needs and stunning appearance, the red dragon flower is sure to add a touch of beauty and intrigue to any succulent collection!