Rhinephyllum graniforme is a low, densely leaved succulent shrub that was first described as Mesembryanthemum graniforme in 1803.
Scientific Name
Rhinephyllum graniforme (Haw.) L.Bolus
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum graniforme
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Tribe: Ruschieae
Genus: Rhinephyllum
Etymology
The specific epithet "graniforme (gran-NY-form-ee)" means "grain-shaped" and refers to the shape of the leaves.
Origin
Rhinephyllum graniforme is native to South Africa. It grows on shaley flats between Laingsburg and Prince Albert in the Western Cape province.
Description
Rhinephyllum graniforme is a succulent shrublet with grain-shaped leaves densely packed along the branches. It can reach a height of up to 6 inches (15 cm) tall. The leaves are gray-green and rough to the touch due to raised dots. They can grow up to 0.3 inches (1.7 cm) long. The old leaves remain dry on the branches for several years.
In late winter and spring, Rhinephyllum graniforme produces solitary flowers with narrow, bright yellow petals. The flowers open in the late afternoon or early evening. The fruits are 5-locular capsules with broad valve wings and can reach up to 0.3 inches (0.7 cm) in diameter.
How to Grow and Care for Rhinephyllum graniforme
Light: Rhinephyllum graniforme requires bright light but not too much direct sunlight. So, a windowsill that receives 4 to 5 hours of direct sunlight in the morning and partial shade in the afternoon will be a perfect spot for indoor growing.
Soil: The plant thrives in porous soil, allowing the water to drain away quickly. Therefore, use commercial soil for succulents or make your own well-draining mix.
Temperature: High temperatures are not a problem as long as there is plenty of fresh air, but this plant is not cold-hardy. It grows best in USDA Plant Hardiness Zones 10a to 11b, with average minimum winter temperatures ranging from 30 to 50 °F (-1.1 to 10 °C).
Watering: To keep your Rhinephyllum graniforme healthy, it is most important to know when, how much, and how often to water it. During the dormant period, usually in summer, the plant requires little or no water. From fall to spring, water it thoroughly but allow the soil to dry between waterings.
Fertilizing: As long as you repot this plant every two years, it does not need fertilizer.
Repotting: Even if it can stay happy in the same pot for years, once in a while, you can repot your plant to give it more space anytime during the growing season. However, the best time is at the beginning of the growing season.
Propagation: One way to propagate this plant is by stem cuttings during the growing season, which is quite simple. Another option is to start it from seeds by sowing them in well-draining soil during the fall.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Toxicity of Rhinephyllum graniforme
Rhinephyllum graniforme is considered non-toxic and safe around kids and pets.
Links
- Back to genus Rhinephyllum
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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