Succulents & Cacti

Euphorbia parvimedusae is sonder twyfel een van die mees opwindende nuwe ontdekkings van die afgelope paar jaar. Dit het op sigself groot ornamentele waarde—maar daar is meer. Hierdie spesie kan ’n sleutelrol speel in die toekomstige teel van struikagtige en stekelrige euphorbias. Net soos E. tulearensis ’n belangrike rol gespeel het in die teel van E. francoisii, kan Euphorbia parvimedusae alle struikagtige Euphorbia-spesies deur hibridisering kompakter en dwergagtig maak. Hierdie proses ontbloot ook soms verborge gene van elke spesie, wat soms tot verrassende resultate lei.

Euphorbia suzannae is a distinctive succulent belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. Native to the Cape region of South Africa, it grows as a small, rounded plant with fleshy green stems that may develop reddish tones in bright sunlight. It typically reaches up to 30 cm tall and produces clusters of tiny lance-shaped leaves at the tips of its stems, creating a charming contrast against its thick body. In favorable conditions, it may produce small yellow-green flowers.

This species thrives in well-draining soil, requires moderate watering (allow soil to dry between waterings), and should be protected from frost. Like many Euphorbias, it contains toxic latex sap, so handle with care and keep away from pets and children. Its compact size and resilience make it an excellent choice for collectors and drought-tolerant gardens

Gasteria lilliputana is a tiny, yet striking succulent native to South Africa. This miniature plant features thick, fleshy leaves that form a dense rosette, with dark green to greyish-green coloring and distinctive white markings or spots. The leaves are rough to the touch, giving it a unique texture that stands out in succulent collections. In late winter or early spring, it produces small, tubular flowers in shades of pink or red, adding a pop of color to its compact form. Interesting fact: Despite its small size, Gasteria lilliputana is extremely hardy and can tolerate drought and neglect, making it an ideal choice for beginner succulent growers. Its slow-growing nature also means it requires minimal maintenance and thrives in bright, indirect light.

Haworthia scabra var. scabra

A tough yet beautifully textured succulent, Haworthia scabra var. scabra is known for its elongated rosettes of firm, dark green leaves covered in rough, sandpaper-like ridges. Its rugged surface and upright growth give it a distinctive, hardy appearance that contrasts nicely with smoother succulents in any collection.

This resilient species is well-suited to a variety of conditions, thriving in bright, indirect light with minimal watering. Its durability and unique texture make it an excellent choice for both beginners and collectors.

Interesting fact:
The name “scabra” means “rough” or “scaly,” referring to the plant’s coarse leaf texture—an adaptation that helps reduce water loss in its natural habitat.

Haworthia truncata (Horse’s Teeth / Perdetande)

A truly unusual and eye-catching succulent, Haworthia truncata is known for its distinctive, flat-topped leaves that look as if they’ve been neatly cut off. These thick, upright leaves grow in opposite rows, forming a fan-like arrangement with translucent “windows” at the tips—allowing light to reach deep into the plant.

Its geometric form and subtle patterns make it a standout in any collection, especially for those who appreciate rare and architectural plants. Easy to care for, it thrives in bright, indirect light with minimal watering.

Interesting fact:
The unique “windowed” leaf tips of Haworthia truncata are an adaptation that allows the plant to stay mostly buried in the soil in its natural habitat, protecting it from harsh sun while still capturing light.

Mammillaria theresae is a miniature, rare cactus native to the mountainous regions of Durango, Mexico. It features soft, white spines and vibrant pink to magenta flowers that bloom in spring. This slow-growing species prefers bright light, well-draining soil, and minimal watering. A true gem for collectors!

Mammillaria decipiens (Bird’s Nest Cactus)

A charming and compact cactus, Mammillaria decipiens forms dense clusters of soft, cylindrical stems that naturally arrange into a beautiful “bird’s nest” shape. Its fine, radial spines give it a delicate, textured look, while in season it produces a ring of small, creamy-white to pale yellow flowers that crown each stem like a halo.

Perfect for small pots or collectors’ displays, this easy-care species thrives in bright light and requires minimal watering, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned cactus enthusiasts.

Interesting fact:
The name “decipiens” means “deceptive” — a nod to how this cactus can easily be mistaken for other Mammillaria species, even by experienced collectors.

Ortegocactus macdougallii is a rare and unique species of cactus native to a small region in Oaxaca, Mexico. It is a small, globular cactus that usually grows as a solitary plant but can form small clusters over time. The body is dark green to gray-green with distinctive black spines and a slightly woolly crown. One of its most striking features is the chalky, bluish-grey coating on the skin, which helps protect it from intense sunlight. It produces bright yellow flowers in spring or early summer. Due to its limited natural habitat, it is considered a vulnerable species and is prized by cactus collectors.

Pilosocereus glaucescens (Blue Torch Cactus)

A striking columnar cactus, Pilosocereus glaucescens is admired for its powdery blue skin that gives it a cool, silvery glow in sunlight. Its upright stems are accented with golden-yellow spines, creating a beautiful contrast that makes it a standout feature in any collection or landscape. As it matures, it can develop into an impressive, sculptural specimen.

Ideal for bright, sunny positions, this cactus thrives with minimal care and well-draining soil—perfect for both collectors and bold decorative displays.

Interesting fact:
The blue coloration of Pilosocereus glaucescens comes from a natural waxy coating that helps protect the plant from intense sun and reduces water loss in its native habitat.

Stenocactus multicostatus is a distinctive cactus known for its many thin, wavy ribs that create a beautifully textured, spherical form. Its intricate structure gives it a sculptural appearance, while delicate flowers in shades of white to pale pink often bloom from the crown. This compact cactus thrives in bright light and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for containers and specialist cactus collections.

Tulista pumila (formerly Haworthia pumila) is a striking and slow-growing succulent native to the Western Cape of South Africa. Known for its architectural beauty, this plant forms compact rosettes of thick, fleshy, dark green to brownish leaves covered with prominent raised white tubercles, giving it a textured, bumpy appearance.

Tulista pumila can grow up to 20 cm (8 inches) tall and wide, with mature plants producing tall, slender flower stalks bearing small, tubular, pale pink to white flowers—typically blooming in late spring to summer. The leaves are triangular and curved inward, often with toothed margins, adding to its ornamental value.

This species is drought-tolerant and prefers well-draining soil, partial sun to bright indirect light, and minimal watering—making it ideal for rock gardens, succulent collections, or container displays. Tulista pumila is also prized for its resilience and unique form, often regarded as one of the most attractive members of the Tulista genus.