Scientific Name
Lenophyllum obtusum Moran
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Lenophyllum
Description
Lenophyllum obtusum is a small succulent with short stems and fleshy leaves ranging from green or glaucous to brownish or purplish. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall, branching near the base. The leaves vary in shape from broadly ovate to elliptic or rounded-obovate and broadly obtuse to rounded. They can reach up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in length and width.
The flowers have sepals the same color as the leaves and dull yellow petals with brownish tips. They appear in flat-topped clusters in late summer and fall.
Origin
This species is native to Mexico. It occurs in Nuevo León at elevations that range from 2,950 to 4,000 feet (900 to 1,220 m).
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 8a to 11b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Like most desert plants, Lenophyllum is drought-tolerant and does not tolerate wet soils, especially in winter. Its small tufted habit makes Lenophyllum a great plant for a southwestern-themed rock garden or container. And, of course, they are great plants for green roofs. Once established, it will produce stalks with small yellow flowers.
Repotting is not very practiced because it is likely to lose the ornamental aspect of the plant. Being small plants, however, is generally not necessary. Pruning is usually limited to the elimination of damaged parts.
Plants of the genus Lenophyllum multiply well by seed, cuttings, or division of the bushes.
Lenophyllum is easy to propagate by simply sticking a leaf in a pot of soil. The leaf will root in and start growing with little care.
Sow at a temperature of 66 to 75 °F (19 to 24 °C), using a damp mix and damp sand in a shaded area, and be careful not to water too much until germination.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Lenophyllum.
Links
- Back to genus Lenophyllum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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