Scientific Name
Acrodon bellidiflorus (L.) N.E. Br.
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum bellidiflorum, Ruschia graminea
Common Name(s)
Common Tiptoothfig
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Acrodon
Etymology
The specific epithet "bellidiflorus" (pronounced "bel-lid-ee-FLOR-us") means "having Bellis-like flowers" and refers to the flowers of this species, which are similar to the members of the genus Bellis.
Origin
Acrodon bellidiflorus is native to South Africa. It occurs from Bredasdorp and McGregor to the Little Karoo in the Western Cape province.
Description
Acrodon bellidiflorus is a small succulent plant that branches near the base, forming compact clumps of creeping stems and erect leaves. The leaves are deep green to bluish-green or grey-green, triangular in cross-section, measuring up to 2 inches (5 cm) long. They grow in pairs, curving slightly inwards to each other at the tips until the next pair emerges, forcing the older pair outwards. The margins of the leaves are smooth or with 3 or 4 tiny, whitish, flexible, broad-based teeth at the upper part.
The fall flowers are white to pale pink with pink mid stripes and tips, and appear solitary at the branch tips. They can reach a diameter of up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm). The fruits are 5-locular capsules longer than 0.8 inches (2 cm).
How to Grow and Care for Acrodon bellidiflorus
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25°F (-3.9°C) to 50°F (10°C).
The basics of Mesemb care are very simple, with free-draining soil, plenty of sun and ventilation, and regular light watering in the right season. Yet the difficulties are endless, trying to adapt to the Mesembs' adaptability and to follow their growth habits in your particular conditions.
Mesembs require a loam-based compost with extra drainage material such as horticultural grit or perlite. They all like good light conditions and plenty of ventilation.
Some are relatively cold-hardy and can even survive mild winters outside. Most will survive temperatures down to the freezing point. Some Mesembs begin to grow in the autumn as temperatures drop and days get shorter.
Because different genera within the Mesemb family have different growing conditions, care must be taken with watering. Some genera will benefit from light spray water to prevent shriveling during their dormant period.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Links
- Back to genus Acrodon
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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