Drosanthemum globosum is a beautiful plant with shiny, translucent papillae that cover the succulent leaves, a characteristic feature of the genus.
Scientific Name
Drosanthemum globosum L.Bolus
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Drosanthemum
Etymology
The specific epithet "globosum" (pronounced glo-BOH-sum) means "spherical, globular" and refers to the shape of the leaves of this species.
Origin
Drosanthemum globosum is native to South Africa. It grows in loamy soil from Laingsburg to Montagu and Prince Albert in the Western Cape province.
Description
Drosanthemum globosum is an erect, much-branched, succulent shrublet with brown branches that bear spherical leaves densely covered with translucent papillae. It can grow up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall, and its leaves can reach a diameter of 0.15 inches (0.3 cm). While the leaves are typically green, they can display shades of yellow, orange, pink, or red when exposed to intense sunlight. The leaves tend to fall off the plant easily.
From late winter to spring, Drosanthemum globosum produces flowers with magenta petals and pink filamentous staminodes. The flower can reach a diameter of 0.7 inches (1.7 cm). The fruits are 5-locular, almost star-shaped capsules.
How to Grow and Care for Drosanthemum globosum
Light: Drosanthemum globosum thrives in bright light but should be protected from excessive direct sunlight. An ideal indoor location would be a windowsill that receives 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight in the morning and partial shade in the afternoon.
Soil: The plant thrives in porous soil, allowing the water to drain away quickly. You can use commercial soil for succulents or make your own well-draining mix.
Temperature: High temperatures are not a problem as long as there is plenty of fresh air. However, this plant is not cold-hardy. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 9b to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 25 to 50 °F (-3.9 to 10 °C).
Watering: To keep your Drosanthemum globosum healthy, it is most important to know when, how much, and how often to water it. During the dormant period in winter, this plant requires little or no water. From spring to fall, water it thoroughly, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilizing: As long as you repot this plant every two years, it does not need fertilizer.
Repotting: Although this plant can thrive in the same pot for several years, it can benefit from repotting occasionally to give it more room during the growing season. The ideal time for repotting is at the beginning of this season
Propagation: Drosanthemum globosum can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. Take cutting in spring or summer. The best time to sow the seeds is in the fall, after harvesting them in late summer.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Toxicity of Drosanthemum globosum
Drosanthemum globosum is considered non-toxic and safe around kids and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Drosanthemum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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