Adromischus sphenophyllus is the most commonly found species in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa. It resembles Adromischus maculatus, but its leaves taper gradually below and do not have spots.
Scientific Name
Adromischus sphenophyllus C.A.Sm.
Common Name(s)
Nentabossie (Little Nenta Bush) in Afrikaans.
Synonym(s)
Adromischus rhombifolius var. bakeri
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Kalanchoideae
Genus: Adromischus
Etymology
The specific epithet "sphenophyllus (pronounced sfen-oh-FIL-us) means "having wedge-shaped leaves" and refers to the wedge-shaped appearance of the leaves of this species.
Origin
Adromischus sphenophyllus is native to South Africa. It grows under bushes and among rocks on flats and N-facing slopes between Steytlerville, Graaff-Reinet, East London, and Humansdorp in the Eastern Cape province.
Description
Adromischus sphenophyllus is a sparingly branched succulent shrublet with gray, erect branches and gray-green leaves, which are rarely green and do not have purple spots. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall. The branches are succulent and can reach a diameter of up to 1.1 inches (2.8 cm) in diameter at the base. The leaves are flat and inversely lance-shaped, gradually tapering so that the margin forms a straight line from the broadest point at the apex towards the base. They can measure up to 2.8 inches (7 cm) long and 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) wide.
In mid-summer, Adromischus sphenophyllus produces flowers with a corolla featuring a cylindrical, pale green tube that may be tinged red and white, lance-shaped lobes often with pink hues and deep mauve margins. The flowers appear in a thyrse with 1- or 2-flowered cymes. The corolla can reach lengths of up to 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) and a diameter of 0.12 inches (0.3 cm).
How to Grow and Care for Adromischus sphenophyllus
Light: Adromischus sphenophyllus requires bright sunlight to thrive. If you are growing it indoors, placing it near a sunny window or using a grow light is best.
Soil: For optimal health, use well-draining soil. You can choose a commercial soil mix formulated for succulents or make your own.
Temperature: This plant can tolerate high temperatures and cool, frost-free conditions in winter if kept dry. Adromischus sphenophyllus grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).
Watering: During the growing season, water the plant deeply enough for water to run out of the holes in the bottom of the pot. Allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. Do not water the plant in winter.
Fertilizing: Feed your plant with a water-soluble fertilizer only during the growing season to promote optimal growth.
Repotting: You do not need to repot this plant frequently. Repot it only when it outgrows its current pot or if the pot is becoming too shallow. Choose a pot with at least one drainage hole at the bottom.
Propagation: You propagate Adromischus sphenophyllus by stem cuttings, leaves, or seeds. It is best to take cuttings during the growing season, and spring is ideal for sowing seeds if you prefer to start the plant that way.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Adromischus.
Toxicity of Adromischus sphenophyllus
Adromischus sphenophyllus is non-toxic and safe in households with children and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Adromischus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
