Publication: Succulenta (Netherlands) 52: 143 1973.
Description
Conophytum minutum is aptly named for it is only 1 cm tall body, it is in fact one of the smallest or dwarf succulent that offsets readily forming small clumps.
Stem: It is almost stemless (branches subterranean or branch aerially).
Bodies (paired leaves): It have tiny roundish, slightly elongated heads with large flat tops up to 12 mm hight and 10 mm wide. Shiny dark blue-green to grey-green covered with spots. The densely spotted thick sheaths are papery to leathery.
Flowers: Produces masses of bright pink to reddish- purple blooms. They are simple, daisy-like, scentless, early diurnal.
Blooming season: Autumn.
Cultivation and Propagation
It is relatively easy to grow. These plants grow on winter rain and head for summer dormancy. They require little water; otherwise its epidermis breaks (resulting in unsightly scars). Water minimally in summer, (only occasional misting when the plant starts shrivelling), but it will generally grow even in summer if given water. Water regularly in winter after the previous year’s leaves have dried up. Requires good drainage. Keep cool and shaded in summer, it needs full sun or light shade. Hardy to -2°C. Ensure a very good ventilation. Avoid to repot frequently. This plant may stay in the same pot for many years.
Propagation: It can be reproduced both by cuttings and seeds. Take the cutting from a grown-up mother plant. Each cutting must contain one or more heads along with a fraction of root.
Gallery
