Titanopsis primosii

Scientific Name

Titanopsis primosii L.Bol. ex S.A.Hammer

Accepted Scientific Name

Titanopsis schwantesii (Dinter ex Schwantes) Schwantes

Scientific Classification

Family: Aizoaceae
Subfamily: Ruschioideae
Genus: Titanopsis

Description

Titanopsis primosii is one of the forms of the variable Titanopsis schwantesii. It is a mat-forming succulent with rosettes up to 2 inches (5 cm) in diameter. Leaves ate spoon-shaped, up to 1.2 inches (3 cm) long, and up to 0.3 inches (0.8 cm) wide. The rounded ends of the leaves are covered with chunky white or grey, flat warts. Flowers are bright yellow, occasionally orangish or pinkish, and up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).

How to Grow and Care

Like many of the South African desert plants, Concrete Leaf Living Stone tends to become dormant or semi-dormant during the height of summer to conserve moisture. It is often a mistake during mid-summer to keep the plants wet, although they require some water during this period.

Titanopsis are all fairly similar plants and seem to make most of their growth in the fall, with another shorter burst in the spring. Flowers may be produced in fall, spring, or both. This charming 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) if kept fairly dry. Like most plants, it will benefit from good ventilation.

Concrete Leaf Living Stone should be kept in a bright, sunny situation at all times. 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 any chance of it rotting.

Learn more at How to Grow and Care for a Concrete Leaf Living Stone.

Origin

Native to Southern Namibia.