Synonyms:

Conophytum notabile
Conophytum salmonicolor
Conophytum teguliflorum

Habitat:

Conophytum frutescens comes from the Namaqualand region in the Northern Cape of South Africa. It can be found specifically in the Succulent Karoo habitat, where it thrives on moist quartzite slopes that are exposed to the elements. Despite having a limited extent of occurrence, covering an area of less than 100 km², this species is locally abundant and not considered to be at risk. The surrounding vegetation in this area is notably rich, hosting unique geophytes like Massonia depressa and Eriospermum aphyllum. The latter, known for its tuberous structure and photosynthetic stems resembling an old rooftop TV antenna, adds to the diverse botanical landscape.

Description:

Conophytum frutescens is an exceptionally attractive perennial succulent, growing slowly and reaching a height of 10-30(-50) cm. It is named for its unparalleled shrubby appearance and forms loose, spherical shrublets resembling C. bilobum in shape. Unlike other members of the genus, which tend to have compact or even subterranean growth, C. frutescens develops loosely branched stems with extended internodes of up to 3 cm long. However, it’s important to note that this feature may be absent in certain populations in the northern regions.
It is worth mentioning that Conophytum frutescens can be easily distinguished from the taller varieties of Conophytum bilobum by its distinct flower coloration and atypical flowering season, which occurs from spring to summer.
The paired leaves, known as bodies, are approximately 35 mm tall and 15 mm wide. They are flat, with more than half of the leaf fused, resulting in a claw-like shape with a gaping slit. The two lobes are prominent and can be yellowish-green, grey-green, or turquoise in color. The bodies are glabrous, with dull purple streaks or patches marking the keels and edges of the fissure between the lobes. The remnants of dried-out flowers from the previous season can be observed between the tips of each fused leaf pair.
Conophytum frutescens, also known as Conophytum salmonicolor, displays stunning orange-pink or orange/coppery flowers, which perfectly depict its beauty. The unique aspect of this species is its mid-day flowering habit, which is uncommon among conophytums. Typically, such coloration is found in conophytums with nocturnal blooms or hybrids between species with violet and yellow petals. The ovaries are included within the flowers. The calyx tube measures 5 mm in length and has five narrow, pale green, translucent lobes, each also 5 mm long. The corolla tube is 1.2-1.4 cm long, up to 1.5 mm wide, narrow lanceolate in shape, with a slightly incurved tip. The inner part of the corolla tube is narrower and shorter than the outer part. This species blooms early, setting it apart from most conophytums that flower in autumn. C. frutescens is in full bloom during the summer solstice. The fruits of Conophytum frutescens are four to five-locular, indicating the presence of multiple chambers.

Cultivation:

Conophytum frutescens is a resilient plant that thrives when given the opportunity to grow. It is most active from late winter until the end of summer and does not enter a summer dormancy period. When provided with favorable growing conditions, it continues to flourish throughout the summer without requiring specific care. It is an easy plant to cultivate.
Regarding soil, it necessitates excellent drainage as it is prone to root rot. It can be grown outdoors in sunny, dry locations such as rock crevices, but protection against winter moisture is necessary. Alternatively, it can be cultivated in an alpine house using poor, well-drained soil.
Watering should be done sparingly, as excessive water can cause the plant’s epidermis to break, resulting in unsightly scars. During winter, minimal watering is required, only when the plant starts to shrivel. In the following season, water should be provided moderately after the previous year’s leaves have dried up. Good drainage is essential.
For fertilization, it is recommended to feed the plant once during the growing season using a fertilizer specifically designed for cactus succulents. The fertilizer should be low in nitrogen and include all necessary micro nutrients and trace elements. Dilute the fertilizer to half the strength recommended on the label. This plant thrives in poor soils and requires limited fertilizer to prevent excessive vegetation growth, which is susceptible to fungal diseases.
In terms of exposure, it is best to keep the plant cool and shaded during the summer, but it requires full sun or light shade. Adequate ventilation is crucial to maintain its health. Conophytum frutescens can withstand temperatures as low as -2°C, but ensure there is excellent airflow. When it comes to repotting, it is advisable to avoid frequent repotting. This plant can remain in the same pot for many years without issue. As for its uses, it can be grown in containers or rock gardens.

Propagation:

The propagation of this plant is a process often facilitated by its prolific production of suckers. These offshoots, which emerge abundantly, serve as a valuable resource for cultivation. By carefully detaching and transplanting these suckers, one can effectively create new plants, ensuring a steady continuation of this species’ presence. This method, reliant on the natural propensity of the plant to generate these offspring, proves to be a reliable and practical means of reproduction for enthusiasts and horticulturists alike. It not only celebrates the plant’s inherent vitality but also offers a straightforward approach for expanding its presence in gardens and collections.

Curiosity:

The botanical name “Conophytum frutescens” originates from two distinct components. “Conophytum” comes from the Greek words “kono” meaning “cone” or “spindle,” and “phytum” meaning “plant.” This name was chosen due to the plant’s recognizable cone or spindle-shaped appearance. The second part, “frutescens,” stems from the Latin word “frutesco,” signifying “becoming shrubby” or “shrub-like.” Therefore, “Conophytum frutescens” refers to a species within the Conophytum genus, known for its cone-shaped features and its inclination to develop shrub-like growth patterns.

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