Anacampseros rufescens (Haw.) Sweet
Common Names
Sand Rose
Synonyms
Anacampseros arachnoides var. grandiflora, Ruelingia rufescens
Scientific Classification
Family: Anacampserotaceae
Genus: Anacampseros
Description
Anacampseros rufescens is a small, perennial, succulent plant up to 4 inches (10 cm) tall, with olive green, narrow, pointed leaves arranged in a spiraling rosette. In shaded or partially shaded positions the leaves are olive green in color, while in sunlight the leaves are a dark reddish-brown to purple.
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As the plant matures and produces more rosettes, it spreads outwards to form a small mat and develops a thick, caudex-like base from which smaller roots serve to anchor it into the soil. Single flowers arise on up to 4 inches (10 cm) tall stems above the leaves and are pink to rose-purple.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 9a to 11b: from 20 °F (−6.7 °C) to 50 °F (+10 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Anacampseros grow well in partial sun with bright light enhancing the leaf colors and keeping them compact. They require a gritty free-draining soil with added organic material and low to moderate watering. The beautiful caudiciform species are prone to rot and should be watered very sparingly.
Feed with a high potassium fertilizer during the growing season diluted to 1/4 potency and mix into the watering can for application. Anacampseros is an excellent plant for container growing. It always looks good and stays small. It look fine in a cold greenhouse and frame. It do well outdoors in raised beds and terraces as well.
These succulents may be attractive to a variety of insects, but plants in good condition should be nearly pest-free, particularly if they are grown in a mineral potting-mix, with good exposure and ventilation. Nonetheless, watch carefully for any significant decline in health.
This may signal a pest problem that should be dealt with quickly in order to prevent scarring, stunting and even death… – See more at: How to Grow and Care for Anacampseros
Origin
Anacampseros rufescens is native to South Africa.
Links
Back to genus Anacampseros
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