Scientific Name
Trichodiadema intonsum Schwantes
Synonym(s)
Mesembryanthemum intonsum
Scientific Classification
Family: Aizoaceae
Genus: Trichodiadema
Description
Trichodiadema intonsum is a small succulent with erect to spreading stems and grey-green, subcylindrical, slightly recurved leaves. It can grow up to 8 inches (20 cm) tall. The leaves have an apical diadem of colored, sclerotinized bristles.
The solitary flowers are white or pink and appear on short pedicels, reaching up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °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 affects the way they need to be treated in cultivation.
The care basics 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 withstand temperatures down to the freezing point. However, 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
Trichodiadema intonsum is native to South Africa (Cape Province).
Links
- Back to genus Trichodiadema
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
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