Delosperma testaceum is a beautiful small plant with vibrant, daisy-like flowers and gray-green succulent leaves. This unique species is not commonly found in cultivation, making it a prized addition for collectors looking to enhance their collection with rare and captivating succulents.
Scientific Name
Delosperma testaceum (Haw.) Schwantes
Common Name(s)
Orange Sheepfig
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum testaceum
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Delosperma
Etymology
The specific epithet "testaceum" (pronounced test-uh-SEE-um) means "made of bricks or tiles; resembling brick (especially color); covered with a shell" and refers to the color of the flowers of this species.
Origin
Delosperma testaceum is native to South Africa. It grows in flats and hills of karoo sediments in the Upper Karoo, Dry Highveld Grassland, Albany Thickets, Lower Karoo, Rainshadow Valley Karoo, and eastern Fynbos-Renosterveld biome.
Description
Delosperma testaceum is a dwarf succulent shrublet with erect branches and relatively narrow leaves with recurved tips. It can grow up to 24 inches (60 cm) tall, and all plant parts have a velvety texture. The leaves are gray-green, thick, fleshy, rounded on the lower surface, and flat on the upper surface.
From spring to late summer, Delosperma testaceum produces orange flowers that gradually turn brick red as they age. The flowers appear in rich cymes and can reach a diameter of about 0.8 inches (2 cm). The fruits are pale brown capsules that have five locules.
How to Grow and Care for Delosperma testaceum
Light: For optimal growth, this plant requires bright, direct sunlight. Ensure it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Soil: Good drainage is essential to the survival of Delosperma testaceum. Sandy and gravelly soils are ideal for this plant.
Temperature: Although it can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, it prefers warm, dry climates. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 5a to 9b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from -20 to 30 °F (-28.9 to -1.1 °C).
Watering: Once established, water your Delosperma testaceum sparingly during the growing season. It can tolerate several months of drought. Keep it dry in the winter, and only water it if the leaves start to shrivel.
Fertilizing: This plant can thrive without any feeding. However, if grown in a container, it may require fertilization, as nutrients in potting soil deplete more quickly than in garden soil.
Repotting: Repot every three years or when the plant outgrows its current pot. Do this in the spring using a larger pot with drainage holes.
Propagation: Delosperma testaceum can be propagated by division, cuttings, or seeds. If propagating by division, do so in the spring. Cuttings can be taken any time during the growing season, while spring is ideal for sowing seeds.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Delosperma.
Toxicity of Delosperma testaceum
Delosperma testaceum is non-toxic, making it safe around children and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Delosperma
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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