Avonia baeseckei
Anacampseros baeseckei Dinter ex Poelln

Anacampseros baeseckei is widespread in Northern Namibia and South Africa. In particularly, it’s widespread in Northern Cape province, Namaqualand and Bushmanland.

Anacampseros baeseckei is a dwarf perennial plant, composed by cylindrical erect stems, 2-8 centimeters long, with a diameter of more or less 1,5 centimeters. On the stems there are globose, succulent, rounded leaves, closely packed to each others, 4 mm long and 3 mm wide. On the leaves there is a felt-like, soft, white substance and a brownish spot. Flowers are bright pink, they have five petals and they develop upon a brownish, succulent stem, taller than the entire plant.

The main problems in the cultivation of Anacampseros baeseckei are overwatering and cold. Anacampseros baeseckei needs a bright spot, exposed to direct sunlight, for flowering and develop. Its roots are fine and fibrous, and need a well-draining substrate. You can use a cactus mix as a substrate, or either add perlite to a normal substrate. Clay, shallow pots are recommended to help drainage. Repotting is generally not necessary, being Anacampseros baeseckei a dwarf succulent. This plant can survive until -5ºC, but, in winter, to avoid damages, it’s better to keep it indoors. Water Anacampseros baeseckei twice a week in summer, with little water. Wait until the soil is completely dry to water again. Avoid watering in winter.

Propagation of Anacampseros baeseckei is done by seeds.

The name “Anacampseros”, from the greek words ákantha (spine) and “cályx”, literally means “spined calyx”. The floral tube has in fact bristles modified in spines.