Scientific Name
Schwantesia triebneri L. Bolus
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Genus: Schwantesia
Description
Schwantesia triebneri is a low-growing succulent that forms a compact tuft of light grey to yellowish leaves. The leaves are fleshy, up to 2.4 inches (6 cm) long, up to 0.4 inches (1 cm) wide, and up to 0.2 inches (5 mm) thick. They grow in opposite pairs. Flowers are yellow, up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter, and appear in winter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °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 affect 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 to 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.
Origin
Schwantesia triebneri is native to South Africa (Northern Cape).
Links
- Back to genus Schwantesia
- Succulentopedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
