Scientific Name
Titanopsis calcarea (Marloth) Schwantes
Common Name(s)
Concrete Leaf, Concrete Leaf Living Stone, Jewel Weed, Carpet Leaf, Sheep's Tongue, Living Stone
Synonym(s)
Titanopsis calcareum
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Genus: Titanopsis
Etymology
The specific epithet "calcarea" (pronounced "kal-KAR-ee-uh") means "chalky" and refers to the distinctive, chalky appearance of this species.
Origin
Titanopsis calcarea is native to South Africa (Bushmanland, Upper Karoo).
Description
Titanopsis calcarea is a mat-forming succulent that forms rosettes of usually grey or blue-green leaves densely covered at the apex with rough, whitish, creamy-grey, ocher, red, or bluish tubercles. The rosettes can grow up to 3 inches (7.5 cm) in diameter. The leaves are thick, fleshy, with a truncated tip, and can measure up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long.
The flowers are yellow to orange and can reach a diameter of 0.8 inches (2 cm).
Forms of Titanopsis calcarea
- Titanopsis fulleri (not accepted species)
How to Grow and Care for Titanopsis calcarea
Hardiness: USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20°F (-6.7°C) to 50°F (10°C).
Like many South African desert plants, Concrete Leaf Living Stone tends to become dormant or semi-dormant during the height of summer to conserve moisture. Keeping plants wet during mid-summer is often a mistake, even though they require some water during this period.
The members of the genus Titanopsis are all similar plants that seem to grow most in the fall, with a shorter burst in the spring. They may produce flowers in fall, spring, or both. This beautiful little plant is worthy of a place in most collections. Concrete Leaf Living Stone is quite tolerant of temperatures down to 40°F (5°C) when kept fairly dry. Like most plants, it benefits from good ventilation.
Concrete Leaf Living Stone should be kept in a bright, sunny situation. It will grow well in a south-facing window.
Water this succulent well during the spring, allowing the compost to dry between waterings. During the summer, the semi-dormant Concrete Leaf Living Stone should be watered sparingly to avoid rot.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Titanopsis.
Links
- Back to genus Titanopsis
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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