Scientific Name
Gibbaeum petrense (N.E.Br.) Tisch.
Synonym(s)
Argeta petrense, Argeta petrensis, Gibbaeum haagei, Gibbaeum tischleri
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Gibbaeum
Description
Gibbaeum petrense is a dwarf succulent with paired grey-green, sharp-edged leaves joined at the base. It can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) tall, forming a compact clump up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter. The leaves are fleshy, smooth, and triangular, measuring up to 0.5 inches (1.2 cm) long and 0.3 inches (0.7 cm) wide. Every year, a few new leaves grow from the central stem.
The long-lasting daisy-like flowers are pink to reddish-violet and appear in spring. They can reach up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 10b to 11b: from 35 °F (+1.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Most Mesembs are 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
Gibbaeum petrense is native to South Africa (Little Karoo).
Links
- Back to genus Gibbaeum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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