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Cactus Succulent

Conophytum minutum
  • RHS AGM

lesser dumpling

A tiny evergreen succulent plant producing smooth, grey green, fused leaf-pairs to 1cm tall. It produces offsets readily to form a clump. In late summer it bears pink flowers to 2cm across

Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0–0.1 metre
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Pink Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Aizoaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Conophytum are dwarf succulent perennials forming clumps of "bodies" comprising a pair of very fleshy leaves, united in the lower part, with solitary daisy-like flowers appearing from the central fissure; the leaves usually shrivel after flowering

Name status

Correct

Plant range
S Africa (W Cape)

How to grow

Cultivation

Under glass, grow in a mix of 2 parts loam to 1 part each sharp sand and leaf mould, in full light with low humidity. Water sparingly from late summer to early winter and again in spring; additional fertiliser is not necessary. Conophytums need a dormancy period from late spring till midsummer and should be kept dry at this time

Propagation

Propagate by surface sowing seed at 20-25°C in late winter in moist, shady conditions. Gradually increase light and reduce humidity after germination. Separate and root complete bodies in late summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Houseplants
  • Low Maintenance
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to aphids

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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