Scientific Name
Calandrinia spectabilis Otto & A.Dietr.
Common Name(s)
Rock Purslane
Synonym(s)
Claytonia spectabilis
Scientific Classification
Family: Montiaceae
Genus: Calandrinia
Description
Calandrinia spectabilis is a spectacular shrubby succulent with blue-green diamond-shaped leaves. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall. The fleshy leaves have soft hair and smooth margins.
The flowers are poppy-shaped, bright magenta, and rise above the foliage on stalks that can grow up to 2 feet (60 cm) long. The flower production starts in spring and continues until fall.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 8a to 10b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Calandrinias are very easy to care for as they can tolerate prolonged dry periods. They do not like too much water, especially in the winter. Plants can grow as short-lived perennials in warm regions but should be grown as annuals elsewhere. Propagate by taking cuttings or allowing plants to self-seed in situ.
If you plan to grow outdoors from seed, then Calandrinia species should be sown at a depth of 0.1 inches (3 mm) after the last frost of spring. If you prefer to start Calandrinias as seeds indoors, then they should be started about eight weeks before they are due to be put out.
They should be grown at 55 to 60 °F (13 to 16 °C) and take from 1 to 2 weeks to germinate. The seedlings of Calandrinia should be planted out with a spacing of about 8 inches (20 cm) following the last possible frost of spring into an area that receives plenty of sunlight and into gritty or sandy soil.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Calandrinia.
Origin
Calandrinia spectabilis is native to Chile.
Links
- Back to genus Calandrinia
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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