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Cactus Succulent

Conophytum minutum

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

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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 GB / Ireland
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

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