Botanical Name — Adromischus marianiae herrei v.red

Common Name — 

Plant Family — Crassulaceae 

Background

Adromischus marianiae herrei v.red is native to South Africa, where it grows in granite rock face crevices. Leaves are actually clusters of textured green sub-spherical protrusions with a notably rough surface. Low-lying, this Adromischus will remain fairly short in height, reaching only up to about 6 inches tall. Notoriously difficult to cultivate, this plant is not for the faint of heart! Nevertheless, it makes for a unique, otherworldly specimen in an arid plant collection. 

Growth Requirements

Sun

• Give Adromischus marianae plenty of direct sun with partial shade during the harshest afternoon hours. It will not tolerate full shade.
• They thrive in morning or late afternoon sun. If possible give them a spot in a sill with south-eastern or south-western exposure. 

Temperature/ Humidity 

• This arid plant likes high temperatures and low humidity. It will thrive in temperatures above 75°F, but avoid consistent temperatures below 45°F. Keep it indoors in a sunny windowsill during cooler months. 

Water

• This plant is super low-maintenance from a watering standpoint. Its semi-spherical succulent leaves retain plenty of moisture, so be sure to let the soil dry out completely between waterings. When you do water, water thoroughly, fully saturating the soil. 
• In the winter, when these plants are not actively growing, ease up on watering even more. The easiest way to kill this plant is by overwatering it. 

Soil/Roots

• In their native environment, these succulents grow in granite cliff crevices in South Africa. At home they’ll prefer gritty, well drained growing material. Build a mineral-heavy soil with very little organic matter. It needs perfect drainage to flourish.
• Start with a good cacti or succulent mix, then add sand or pumice up to 50%.

Flowering

• Cylindrical, stalky flowers may emerge from between leaves at the beginning of a spring or summer growing season. They have green bases and sometimes pinkish-hued tips. 

Fertilization

• Fertilization is not necessary, but if you are going to use one be sure to use one specifically made for cacti and succulents.
• Fertilize once every two weeks during the active growing season. Never fertilize in winter.

Propagation

• These plants will propagate easily by leaf cuttings, stem cuttings or division. 

Health

Diseases

• This plant is most vulnerable to mealybugs and occasionally scale. Root rot can occur if it is overwatered. 

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

• These plants prefer to be root bound, so you’ll only need to repot once every two or three years.

Toxicity

• Adromischus marianiae herrei v.red are known to be toxic if ingested by animals and humans. Keep out of reach of children and pets.