Scientific Name
Machairophyllum brevifolium L.Bolus
Synonym(s)
Machairophyllum latifolium
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Machairophyllum
Description
Machairophyllum brevifolium is a nearly stemless succulent with glabrous gray-green leaves. It can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) tall. The leaves are triangular in cross-section and can measure up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long, 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, and 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) thick.
The solitary flowers are bright yellow and appear in spring and early summer, opening in the afternoon or evening. They can reach up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) in length and 1.8 inches (4.5 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
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 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 withstand 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
Machairophyllum brevifolium is native to South Africa (Western Cape).
Links
- Back to genus Machairophyllum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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