About
A ground-hugging succulent to 4cm tall, with thick, fleshy, 3-angled grey-green leaves, covered in tiny white dots (tubercles) and with teeth at the margins. In spring it produces many-petalled, scented yellow flowers to 1.5cm across; these open in the afternoon or evening.
About the genus
A genus of around 40 species of perennial succulents, native to South Africa, with grey-green to purple, fleshy and lumpy cone-shaped foliage and yellow flowers which bloom at night
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitMatforming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0-0.1 metre
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toSouth Africa (Cape)
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in standard cactus compost in full light with good ventilation. From spring to summer, water moderately and apply a half-strength, low-nitrogen fertiliser monthly; keep almost dry at other times. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further information
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed sown at 20°C in spring, or by stem section cuttings in spring or summer
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to mealybugs
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to root and stem rots if overwatered