Scientific Name
Nananthus vittatus (N.E. Br.) Schwantes
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum vittatum, Aloinopsis vittata
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Nananthus
Description
Nananthus vittatus is a much-branched succulent with a large caudex and thick fleshy olive-green to dark green leaves arranged in rosettes. It grows up to 4 inches (10 cm) tall. Leaves are ovate to lanceolate, up to 12 inches (30 cm) long, and up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) wide. The daisy-like flowers are yellow with a red stripe down the middle of each petal, up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, and appear in winter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 45 °F (+7.2 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Nananthus are easy and rewarding plants. In the wild, they are summer growers but often behave as winter growers in cultivation. Coming from a more continental part of South Africa, Nananthus will tolerate intense heat and some frost. They should be lightly shaded in summer. Water minimally, only when the plant starts shriveling. They need full sun or light shade in the other seasons. They generally bloom in the fall.
Most species develop large root systems and must be kept in a large pot with a soil mix and excellent drainage to avoid root rot. These plants are sometimes planted so that some root systems are shown.
Nananthus will take a small amount of frost for a short time. It is reported to be hardy to at least 10°F (-12°C). Keep cool in summer.
Nananthus are propagated by cuttings and seeds.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Nananthus.
Origin
This species is native to South Africa (Mpumalanga).
Links
- Back to genus Nananthus
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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