Scientific Name
Tetraena fontanesii (Webb & Berthel.) Beier & Thulin
Common Names
Sea Grape, Canarian Bean Caper
Synonyms
Zygophyllum fontanesii
Scientific Classification
Family: Zygophyllaceae
Genus: Tetraena
Description
Tetraena fontanesii is an odd-appearing, bushy or cushion-like plant with spreading woody branches and thick, green or yellow leaves that looks-like small grapes growing upwards. It grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and up to 20 inches (50 cm) in diameter. Flowers are small, pale pink, star-shaped, and appear in great profusion during early summer. They are followed by rounded fruits that turn color from green to orange in the season.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 7a to 10b: from 0 °F (−17.8 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Zygophyllum is found in many deserts and semi-deserts of the world, including some of the aridest habitats in which plant life is possible. Species are found in various habitats along hill slopes, dry rivers, ridges, road verges, coarse sandy soil, calcareous sand, and brackish soil.
Species of Zygophyllum are usually not found in cultivation. Some of them are very attractive with their yellow, delicate petals and interesting fruits and will undoubtedly be suitable for growing in gardens.
Propagation can be done from seed or by taking cuttings in spring.
See more at Growing and Using Zygophyllum.
Origin
It is found in Macaronesia and northeast Africa.
Links
- Back to genus Tetraena
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
