Astrophytum Asterias Nudum

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.

Tylecodon buchholzianus is a winter-growing succulent shrub native to the arid regions of South Africa, particularly the Western and Northern Cape. Like other members of the genus Tylecodon, it is well adapted to long, dry summers and produces leaves only during the cooler growing season.

Characteristics:

• Forms a branching shrub with a thickened, often sculptural base.
• Stems may become woody and grey with age.
• Leaves are fleshy, green, and appear mainly in winter (active growth period).
• Produces tall flower stalks bearing small tubular flowers, usually greenish to yellowish or pinkish depending on form.
• The plant typically enters full dormancy in summer, shedding its leaves.

Cultivation:

• Winter-growing succulent.
• Requires very well-drained soil and a dry summer dormancy.
• Water moderately during autumn–spring growth.
• Keep almost completely dry in summer.
• Prefers full sun to bright light conditions.

Notes:

• Like many Tylecodon species, it contains toxic compounds and should not be consumed by animals or humans

Adromischus marianiae – Clanwilliam Form

A fascinating South African succulent prized by collectors for its unusual, highly textured leaves. This locality form from the Clanwilliam area of the Western Cape develops thick, compact leaves that may range from green and grey-green to reddish or deep burgundy, particularly when grown in strong light.

🌱 Care: Grow in bright light with some protection from intense midday summer sun. Use a very well-draining, mineral-rich succulent mix. Water thoroughly during active growth, but allow the soil to dry completely before watering again. Keep considerably drier during dormancy.

✨ Interesting fact: Adromischus marianiae is extremely variable, and locality forms are especially valued by collectors because plants from different populations can differ dramatically in leaf shape, texture and colour.

⭐ A must-have South African species for collectors of rare and unusual succulents.