Stomatium ermininum
ermine chop
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
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow | Green Grey Silver | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter | Green Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1CBotanical details
- Family
- Aizoaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Matforming
- 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
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- South Africa (Cape)
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow 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
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown at 20°C in spring, or by stem section cuttings in spring or summer
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Houseplants
- Low Maintenance
- Conservatory and greenhouse
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to mealybugs
Diseases
May be susceptible to root and stem rots if overwatered
Get involved
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