Argyroderma fissum is considered the most primitive species in the Argyroderma genus. As a result, it appears quite different from other species within this genus.
Scientific Name
Argyroderma fissum (Haw.) L.Bolus
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum fissum
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Argyroderma
Etymology
The specific epithet "fissum (pronounced FIZ-zum)" means "cloven" and refers to the cleft appearance of the leaf pairs.
Origin
Argyroderma fissum is native to South Africa. It occurs from Vredendal to Vanrhynsdorp in the Western Cape province, mostly in loamy flats adjacent to quartz gravel.
Description
Argyroderma fissum is a dwarf succulent that forms a dense clump of pairs of finger-shaped leaves. It can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter. As the plant ages, the center dies off, but new branches keep appearing outside the clump. The leaves are fleshy, spreading, and can grow up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) long. They are grey-green to bluish-green, often displaying yellowish or purplish tips and margins.
During winter, Argyroderma fissum produces solitary flowers that can reach up to 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) in diameter. The flowers with a white base may be yellow or magenta and rarely bright red. The fruits are capsules with 12 to 18 locules.
How to Grow and Care for Argyroderma fissum
Light: This succulent requires bright light but not too much direct sunlight. So, a windowsill that receives 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight in the morning and partial shade in the afternoon will be a perfect spot for indoor growing.
Soil: Argyroderma fissum thrives in porous soil that allows water to drain away quickly. Therefore, use commercial soil for succulents or make your own well-draining mix.
Temperature: High temperatures are not a problem as long as there is plenty of fresh air, but this plant is not cold-hardy. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25 to 50 °F (-3.9 to 10 °C).
Watering: To keep your plant healthy, it is most important to know when, how much, and how often to water. During the dormant period, usually in summer, Argyroderma fissum requires little or no water. In the fall, once it grows again, water thoroughly but allow the soil to dry between waterings.
Fertilizing: As long as you repot this plant every two years, it does not need fertilizer.
Repotting: Even if it can stay happy in the same pot for years, once in a while, you can repot your plant to give it more space anytime during the growing season. However, the best time is at the beginning of the growing season.
Propagation: Although usually started from seeds, Argyroderma fissum can also be easily propagated by division. Late summer, just before it begins to break dormancy, is the best time to divide the plant, while the fall is ideal for sowing the seeds.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Toxicity of Argyroderma fissum
Argyroderma fissum is considered non-toxic, so having it around kids and pets is safe.
Links
- Back to genus Argyroderma
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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