Scientific Name
Tylecodon nolteei Lavranos
Scientific Classification
Family: Crassulaceae
Subfamily: Kalanchoideae
Genus: Tylecodon
Origin
This species is native to South Africa (Northern Cape).
Description
Tylecodon nolteei is a dwarf, sparingly branched succulent shrub with a thick main stem growing to 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter. In its native habitat, it grows up to 2.8 inches (7 cm) tall, but it is often taller in cultivation. The main stem and branches are olive-green to brownish with smooth, slightly peeling bark. Leaves are hairy, rounded to broadly elliptic, up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) long, and up to 0.9 inches (2.2 cm) wide. They are greyish-green with dark green to reddish translucent spots on the leaf blade. Flowers are erect, up to 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) long, cream to pale pink, and appear up to 1.6 inches (4 cm) tall clusters in summer.
Etymology
The specific epithet "nolteei" honors Frans K.A. Noltee, a Dutch succulent plant enthusiast, horticulturist, and photographer.
How to Grow and Care for Tylecodon nolteei
Soil: Well-draining soil mix is the key to healthy Tylecodon. Poor drainage and overwatering most commonly cause root rot in both indoor and outdoor plants.
Light: Tylecodons can survive direct sunlight exposure without any problems, but they will grow beautifully when in shadow.
Hardiness: Tylecodon nolteei can withstand temperatures as low as 25 to 50 °F (-3.9 to 10 °C), USDA hardiness zones 9b to 11b.
Watering: As winter is the growing season, Tylecodons require careful watering during the winter until the spring. Get the soil wet, and then wait until it is dry before watering again. In the summer, reduce watering to once per month.
Fertilizing: Use liquid fertilizer for cacti and other succulents during the winter months.
Repotting: You do not need to repot these plants often. You can do it when you see that the container becomes too small or shallow.
Propagation: Tylecodons can be cultivated either by seed or by cuttings.
Learn more at How to Grow and Care for Tylecodon.
Toxicity of Tylecodon nolteei
Tylecodon species are adapted to avoid animal predation being poisonous. Therefore, keep them away from children, pets, and livestock.
Links
- Back to genus Tylecodon
- Succupedia: Browse succulents by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, Origin, or cacti by Genus
Photo Gallery
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