Scientific Name
Glottiphyllum surrectum (Haw.) L.Bolus
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum surrectum, Glottiphyllum arrectum, Glottiphyllum concavum, Glottiphyllum parvifolium, Glottiphyllum rubrostigma, Mesembryanthemum arrectum, Mesembryanthemum subrectum
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Glottiphyllum
Description
Glottiphyllum surrectum is a small mat-forming succulent with short stems and erect, slender leaves with slightly pointed tips. The rosettes have three pairs of leaves arranged cross-wise. They grow up to 3.2 inches (8 cm) in diameter. The leaves are bright green but turn dark green or even a deep red in full sun. Flowers are yellow and appear in the fall.
This species is very similar to its close relative Glottiphyllum cruciatum.
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 how they need to be treated in cultivation.
The basics of care are very simple: free-draining soil, plenty of sun and ventilation, and regular light watering in the right season. 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 like 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.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Origin
This species is native to the arid areas of Little Karoo in the Western Cape, South Africa.
Links
- Back to genus Glottiphyllum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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