Conophytum minimum is an eye-catching dwarf succulent with unmistakable markings that can be either quite minimal or highly pronounced.
Scientific Name
Conophytum minimum (Haw.) N.E.Br.
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum minimum
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Conophytum
Etymology
The specific epithet "minimum (MIN-eh-mum)" means "special, rare, sought out, looked for" and probably refers to the not typical morphology of this species.
Origin
Conophytum minimum is native to South Africa. It grows on shale or sandstone rocks in the Western Cape province.
Description
Conophytum minimum is a dwarf succulent that forms loose mats or domes of bodies that consist of two opposite, almost completely fused leaves. The bodies are elliptical in outline and can grow up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) tall. They are smooth to finely papillate and adorned with distinctive spots and streaks. During the summer resting period, the old leaf pair slowly dries up, forming a white sheath to protect the new leaves growing inside, which will emerge in the fall.
During fall and early winter, Conophytum minimum produces nocturnal flowers ranging from white to pale yellow or pale pink. The fruits are 4- or 5-locular capsules.
How to Grow and Care for Conophytum minimum
Light: This plant requires bright light but not too much direct sun. To prevent sunburn, find a spot where it can receive a few hours of full sun in cooler periods of the day.
Soil: Conophytum minimum needs porous soil that allows water to drain away quickly for optimum plant growth. You can use a commercial potting mix for succulents or make your own.
Temperature: High temperatures are not a problem, but the plant is not frost-hardy. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 35 to 50 °F (1.7 to 10 °C).
Watering: Conophytum minimum requires little or no water during the dormancy from spring to summer. When it begins to grow again in the fall, it is safe to water deeply but allow the soil to dry before between waterings. If leaves start to wrinkle during active growth, your plant needs water.
Fertilizing: This plant is a light feeder and does not need fertilizer if repotted every two years.
Repotting: It is best to repot it at the beginning of the growing season, but it can be done almost any time when the plant is actively growing.
Propagation: Conophytum minimum is usually started from seeds. It can also be easily propagated by division. The best time to divide the plant is in late summer or early fall before it begins to break dormancy or after it has flowered.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Conophytum.
Toxicity of Conophytum minimum
Conophytum minimum is considered non-toxic, so growing around children and pets is safe.
Forms of Conophytum minimum
Links
- Back to genus Conophytum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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