Scientific Name
Schwantesia acutipetala L. Bolus
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Genus: Schwantesia
Etymology
The specific epithet "acutipetala" (pronounced "a-kew-tih-PET-uh-luh") means "having sharp-pointed petals" and refers to the shape of the petals of the flowers of this species.
Origin
The native range of this species is from Warmbad in southern Namibia to Richtersveld in the Northern Cape province of South Africa. It grows in crevices of quartzitic rocks.
Description
Schwantesia acutipetala is a dwarf succulent that forms a compact clump of erect to spreading, bluish-green leaves fused at their bases. The leaves are thick, fleshy, triangular in cross-section, and taper to a point on the apex. They can measure up to 2 inches (5 cm) long and 0.7 inches (1.8 cm) wide.
The flowers are solitary, have yellow petals, often white basally, and appear on a short peduncle in fall. They can reach a diameter of 1.8 inches (4.5 cm). The fruits are 5-locular capsules.
How to Grow and Care for Schwantesia acutipetala
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 10a to 11b: from 30°F (-1.1°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Mesembs are primarily 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 a freezing point. Some Mesembs begin to grow in the fall as temperatures drop and days get shorter.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Mesembs.
Links
- Back to genus Schwantesia
- 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.
