Scientific Name
Rhombophyllum dolabriforme (L.) Schwant.
Common Name(s)
Elkhorn Plant, Hatchet Plant
Synonym(s)
Hereroa dolabriformis, Mesembryanthemum dolabriforme, Mesembryanthemum dolabriformoides
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Genus: Rhombophyllum
Origin
Rhombophyllum dolabriforme is native to South Africa. It occurs on rocky, shale hills from Willowmore to Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape province.
Description
Rhombophyllum dolabriforme is a small, densely branched succulent with clusters of sickle-shaped dull green leaves with translucent spots and a tooth-like projecting tip. It grows slowly and can reach up to 12 inches (30 cm) in height, forming a mound. The leaves are thick, fleshy, upward-curving, and measure up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long.
The flowers are daisy-like, usually solitary, measure up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) in diameter, appear from spring to summer and open in the afternoon. They are golden yellow, often tinged with red on the back of the petals,
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 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 survive temperatures down to the 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.
Links
- Back to genus Rhombophyllum
- 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.
