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Conophytum herreanthus rex
Scientific Name: Conophytum herreanthus rex S.A.Hammer
family: Aizoaceae

Conophytum herreanthus rex
Conophytum herreanthus ssp. rex in habitat at Rooiberg, Photo by Etwin Atlander

Recommended Temperature Zone:

sunset: 10-12
USDA: 10-12

Frost Protection:

Tender, resistant to 32°F (0°C) for short periods

Heat Tolerance:

Needs shade in summer, in Phoenix they should be probably inside in summer

Sun Exposure:

Light shade

Origin:

South Africa

Growth Habits:

Rock-like, slowly clumpig, leaf succulent, 1 inch tall (2.5 cm)

Watering Needs:

Occasional misting in summer, water regularly in winter after the previous year leaves have dried up

Propagation:

Cuttings, seeds

 
 Next to Lithops, Conophytum (or "Cone Plant") is the most popular genus of the Mesembs. Cultivate the Conophytum in a larger pot than seems needed, their root system is pretty large. Use a soil mixture that drains rapidly, a good cactus mix for instance.

Cultural Practices:
Conophytum are dormant in summer. Water is taken away from the old leaves, while a new set of leaves is growing, so no water is generally necessary. At the end of the summer, the new leaves start growing, and the watering can start. Watering them carefully, too much water will make them split, not enough water will prevent their growth. Water whenever the soil mixture feels dry.
Conophytums can burn very easily in the sun. Keep them in the shade during the rest period, and never move a plant into a brighter situation without acclimating it slowly to higher light levels.

Propagation:
Plant seeds any time of the year. Keep in high humidity until the seeds germinate (around a week). The seedlings are fragile, keep them well watered, use diluted fertilizer. Don't transplant them until their start crowding each others.

Links:
Max's Photo Gallery
Selecta Succulents

References:
The genus Conophytum : a conograph

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