Scientific Name
Bergeranthus multiceps (Salm-Dyck) Schwantes
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum multiceps
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Bergeranthus
Description
Bergeranthus multiceps is a small succulent that forms a tightly packed clump of suberect, tapering leaves. It grows up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) tall, developing a single fleshy rootstock that expands as it ages. The rootstock grows up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter. The leaves are fleshy, green, and triangular in cross-section.
The flowers are yellow with pink reverse, up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter, and appear on slender pedicels from a short, branched stem in summer. They open in the evening or late afternoon. The fruits are 5-locular capsules with pear-shaped seeds.
Origin
Bergeranthus multiceps is native to South Africa. It occurs between Uitenhage (officially renamed Kariega) and East London and northwards to Cradock in Eastern Cape, growing on sandstone outcrops.
Etymology
The specific epithet "multiceps (MUL-tee-seps)" means "many-headed" and refers to the crown of the single rootstock.
How to Grow and Care for Bergeranthus multiceps
Light: This succulent needs bright light but does not like too much direct sun. A sunny windowsill where the plant receives 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight during the early part of the day and partial shade during the afternoon is the perfect spot to grow your B. multiceps indoors.
Soil: B. multiceps thrives best in porous soil mixes that allow water to drain away quickly. Use a commercial potting mix specially designed for growing succulents, or make your own.
Temperature: High temperatures are not a problem for this plant as long as there is plenty of fresh air, but it does not have good resistance to extreme cold weather. B. multiceps can withstand temperatures as low as 20 °F (-6.7 °C). USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9a to 11b, 20 to 50 °F (-6.7 to 10 °C).
Watering: B. multiceps requires little or no water when it goes dormant, usually in winter. When it begins to grow again in spring, it is safe to water deeply, allowing the soil to dry before between waterings. If leaves start to wrinkle during active growth, your plant needs water.
Fertilizing: This small succulent is a light feeder and does not need fertilizer if it is repotted every two years.
Repotting: B. multiceps will stay happy in the same pot for several decades. The common reason for repotting is to divide or to give the plant a larger growing space. The best time to repot this plant is at the beginning of the active growth period, but the repotting can be done almost any time while the plant is actively growing.
Propagation: This species is easily propagated by cuttings, division, and seeds. The best time to take cuttings is summer. Divide your B. multiceps in late winter before it begins to break dormancy. Sow the seeds in spring or early summer in a pot with a well-drained soil mix.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Toxicity of Bergeranthus multiceps
B. multiceps is considered non-toxic to humans and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Bergeranthus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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