Conophytum gratum
pleasing cone plant
An evergreen succulent plant forming a clump of light green, globose leaf-pairs. In late summer it bears pink flowers to 2cm across
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
0–0.1 metreGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H2Botanical 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
- Southern Africa
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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