Trichodiadema marlothii

Scientific Name

Trichodiadema marlothii L. Bolus

Scientific Classification

Family: Aizoaceae
Genus: Trichodiadema

Description

Trichodiadema marlothii is a dwarf, perennial succulent up to 2 inches (5 cm) tall. It forms a dense rounded shrub or matt of intermingled, short, blue-green leaves with brownish tip. The stems are woody and almost completely covered by leaves. The leaves are cylindrical and up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) long. Tips are brown with a crown of soft of brownish-white bristles radiating around the center giving the appearance of a cactus areole. The flowers are daisy-like, white, pink or purple-red and up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) in diameter.

Hardiness

USDA hardiness zones 9b to 10b: from 25 °F (−3.9 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).

Trichodiadema marlothii — *Photo via giromagi.com*

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 which are not especially large and sometimes very small, and affects the way they need to be treated in cultivation.

The basics of care are very simple, with 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' own adaptability and to follow their growth habits in your particular conditions.

These plants require a loam-based compost with the addition of 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. There are some Mesembs which begin to grow in the fall as the temperature drops and the days get shorter… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Mesembs