Astroloba corrugata is a tuberculate-leaved species. Occasional smooth forms can be found in Ouberg Pass where a natural hybrid with Tulista pumila also occurs. To the east of its native range, Astroloba corrugata sometimes hybridizes with Astroloba spirella.
Scientific Name
Astroloba corrugata N.L.Mey. & Gideon F.Sm.
Common Name(s)
Bumpy Astroloba
Synonym(s)
Astroloba muricata, Astroloba rugosa, Haworthia corrugata, Tulista corrugata
Scientific Classification
Family: Asphodelaceae
Subfamily: Asphodeloideae
Genus: Astroloba
Etymology
The specific epithet "corrugata (pronounced kor-yoo-GAH-tuh)" means "wrinkled, corrugated" and refers to the rough "corrugated" surfaces of the leaves.
Origin
Astroloba corrugata is native to South Africa. It grows in clay flats in the Ladismith, Montagu, Riversdale, Swellendam, and Worcester Districts of the Western Cape province.
Description
Astroloba corrugata is a small succulent with upright stems densely covered in stout, sharply tapering leaves. The stems can grow up to 24 inches (60 cm) tall, and like all Astrolobas, they branch and offset from the base, forming clumps as they mature. The leaves, often twisted to one side in a spiral arrangement, can measure up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, 0.7 inches (1.8 cm) wide at the base, and 0.2 inches (5 cm) thick. They vary in color from light to dark green and are covered in distinctive tiny, rough tubercles, often arranged in longitudinal rows. The younger leaves are erect, while the older ones tend to spread out and become more or less horizontal. When exposed to intense sunlight, the leaves take on a reddish hue.
During spring and summer, Astroloba corrugata produces small white or cream flowers that may have a pink or greenish tinge, along with midribs that are green with beige or pink undertones. The flowers are spirally arranged on slender, unbranched stalks that can grow up to 17.2 inches (43 cm) long. The fruits are cylindrical, three-locular capsules containing dark grey, angled, winged seeds.
How to Grow and Care for Astroloba corrugata
Light: Astroloba corrugata thrives when provided with some protection from direct sunlight. If it has spent the winter indoors, gradually move the plant outdoors into the bright sunlight to prevent sunburn.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like its roots to remain wet for prolonged periods. You can use commercial soil for succulents or make your own potting mix.
Temperature: Astroloba corrugata tolerates warmer temperatures in the summer but prefers cooler temperatures in the winter. It 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: Water the plant thoroughly during its most active growth periods in spring and fall. Wait until the top of the soil dries out before watering again. Reduce the watering frequency when the plant's growth slows significantly in winter. When the plant is mostly dormant in the summer, water it just enough to keep the leaves from shriveling.
Fertilizing: Although Astroloba corrugata does not require much fertilizer, feeding it can encourage optimal growth. Use a water-soluble fertilizer only during the growing season.
Repotting: This plant can remain in the same pot for several years. To keep it healthy and happy, repot it into fresh soil every two to three years, ideally in spring or fall.
Propagation: Astroloba corrugata can be easily propagated by offsets and cuttings but can also be started from seeds. Remove the offsets and take cuttings during the growing season. Sow the seeds in spring or fall.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Astroloba.
Toxicity of Astroloba corrugata
Astroloba corrugata is considered non-toxic and safe around kids and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Astroloba
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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