Antimima turneriana

Scientific Name

Antimima turneriana (L.Bolus) H.E.K.Hartmann

Synonym(s)

Ruschia turneriana

Scientific Classification

Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Antimima

Origin

This species is native to South Africa. It occurs in Vanrhynsdorp in the Western Cape province, growing in crevices of white quartz, marble, or limestone.

Description

Antimima turneriana is a low-growing succulent that forms compact clumps of short, branched stems with pairs of three-angled gray-green leaves with convex sides and covered long papillae. The leaves are connate basally into a sheath. They are thick, fleshy, up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long, up to 0.3 inches (0.8 cm) wide, and nearly equal in thickness. Flowers are up to 0.25 inches (0.6 cm) in diameter, pinkish-magenta, and appear in winter, usually in groups of three or rarely solitary. Fruits are 5-locular capsules with pear-shaped seeds.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30 °F (−1.1 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Mesembs are mostly adapted to relatively predictable rainfall patterns rather than extreme drought and irregular rainfall. Total rainfall may be extremely low, but water is available at least seasonally or through fog and condensation. This leads to or allows plants that are not especially large and sometimes very small and affects how they need to be treated in cultivation.

Care basics are very simple: free-draining soil, plenty of sun and ventilation, and regular light watering in the right season. The difficulties are endless, trying to adapt to the Mesembs' adaptability and follow their growth habits in your particular conditions.

These plants 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 fall as the temperature drops and the days get shorter.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.