Scientific Name
Monanthes lowei (Paiva) Perez & Acebes
Synonym(s)
Sempervivum lowei
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Sedoideae
Tribe: Sedeae
Subtribe: Sedinae
Genus: Monanthes
Origin
Monanthes lowei is native to the Savage Islands.
Description
Monanthes lowei is a small succulent with flat, loose or relatively compact rosettes of 15 to 45 green, slightly papillose leaves. The rosettes can reach up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. The leaves are rounded and can grow up to 0.6 inches (1.5 cm) long.
The flowers are pale yellow and generally distinctly striped with red-brown along the midrib.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 11a to 11b: from 40 °F (+4.4 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Monanthes are easily grown, even in very small pots. They all like hot, sunny spots and well-drained soil to thrive.
The only things that can kill these plants are cold, hot, blasting sun, and overwatering. They like to have a winter rest period where watering should be reduced to a bare minimum. The plants will begin to grow in early spring, and watering should be increased gradually until late spring when the plant should be in full growth. Water regularly during the growing period so long as the plant pot is allowed to drain and not sit in a water tray.
Monanthes may be attractive to various insects, but plants in good condition should be nearly pest-free. Repot it every 2 or 3 years to evaluate the plant's health and provide a larger growing space, being careful not to damage the sensitive roots.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Monanthes.
Links
- Back to genus Monanthes
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
Click on a photo to see a larger version.
