Scientific Name
Lenophyllum reflexum S.S.White
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Lenophyllum
Origin
Lenophyllum reflexum is native to Mexico (Tamaulipas).
Description
Lenophyllum reflexum is a small succulent with thick stems, branching near the base, and opposite, broadly ovate to elliptic, mostly reflexed leaves. It can grow up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall. The leaves can reach up to 1.8 inches (4.5 cm) in length and 1.2 inches (3 cm) in width. The new leaves are bright green and become suffused with purple, especially below, as they mature.
The small, long-lasting flowers are yellowish-green and appear on much-branched stalks from summer to fall.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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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