About
This evergreen, succulent perennial forming a low (8cm) mat of fleshy, wedge-shaped leaves; these are edged with soft, white spines and bear warty growths (tubercules) on the upper surface. In late summer and autumn it produces yellow flowers to 4cm across, although these only open on sunny days.
About the genus
Faucaria are small, clump-forming succulent perennials with very fleshy, prominently toothed leaves borne on short shoots, and daisy-like yellow, pink or white flowers in summer or autumn
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants, Patio and container plants
Native toS Africa
Care notes
CultivationGrow in cactus compost in full light. Water moderately while in growth and apply a half-strength liquid fertiliser once or twice; keep almost dry in winter
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by stem cuttings or seed sown at 10-20°C in autumn or spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to aphids and root mealybugs
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free