Scientific Name
Oophytum oviforme (N.E. Br.) N.E. Br.
Synonyms
Mesembryanthemum oviforme, Conophytum mutatum, Conophytum oviforme, Oophytum nordenstamii
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Genus: Oophytum
Description
Oophytum oviforme is a small succulent that forms clumps with up to 20 egg-shaped bodies that range from green to orange and purple-brown. The bodies are up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) tall and up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) in diameter. Flowers are white to rose pink and appear in winter. Fruits are 6-locular capsules.
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 how they need to be treated in cultivation.
The basics of care are very 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 a freezing point. Some Mesembs begin to grow in the fall as the temperature drops and the days get shorter.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Origin
Native to South Africa.
Links
- Back to genus Oophytum
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
