Scientific Name
Cephalophyllum framesii L.Bolus
Synonym(s)
Cephalophyllum densum, Cephalophyllum ramosum, Cephalophyllum stayneri
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Cephalophyllum
Description
Cephalophyllum framesii is a small, creeping succulent with short, corky internodes and fleshy, dark green leaves flushed red in full sun. It can grow up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) tall. The leaves are erect and club-shaped, measuring up to 2.8 inches (7 cm) long.
The flowers appear in late fall and early winter and have cream, yellow, or magenta petals and yellow or magenta stamens in all possible combinations.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °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 the way they need to be treated in cultivation.
The care basics are simple: free-draining soil, plenty of sun and ventilation, and regular light watering in the right season. Yet 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.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Origin
Cephalophyllum framesii is native to South Africa (Western Cape).
Links
- Back to genus Cephalophyllum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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