Description
This Calibanus sp. differs conspicuously from Calibanus hookeri in its stem, which is largely above ground. The bark has large plates or small protruberances. Like Calibanus hookeri, the rosettes of leaves of this species almost always emerge directly from the surface of the globular trunk without any elongated stem.
Origin and Habitat
Locality unknown (Mexico, Northern America)
Cultivation and Propagation
Because of its extreme drought tolerance, it makes a great container plant for light shade to full sun, or is an excellent foliage accent in a dry garden in warm regions. Might look its best in a vase shaped terra cotta pot to allow the leaves to drape downwards. It needs moderate water when actively growing, little water the rest of the time, if established. Outdoor it needs heavy soil with excellent drainage and circulating dry air. It is a tough plant. Having been bred to endure dry air and drought, it will survive for years in less than ideal conditions. It can stay in the same pot for a number of years since it prefers to be a bit rootbound.
Propagation: Seeds; it cannot be reproduced by cuttings of the caudex (or leaves).
