Astrophytum Asterias Nudum

Echeveria ‘Malgan Black Swan’

A striking collector’s Echeveria prized for its beautifully shaped rosette and dramatic colouring. Its thick, pointed leaves develop attractive shades of grey-green, mauve, deep purple and burgundy, with the colours becoming richer under bright light and cooler conditions. The powdery coating on the leaves gives the plant an elegant, almost frosted appearance.

Care: Grow in bright light with some morning sun for the best colour and compact growth. Plant in a very well-draining succulent mix and water thoroughly only once the soil has dried. Protect from prolonged heavy rain and extreme afternoon heat.

Interesting fact: The dramatic dark colouring can change considerably throughout the year, making every season slightly different.

A beautiful and unusual must-have for Echeveria and rare succulent collectors.

Ornithogalum is a genus of bulbous flowering plants in the asparagus family (Asparagaceae), native mainly to southern Africa and parts of Europe and western Asia. The group includes many species commonly called “star-of-Bethlehem” due to their star-shaped flowers.

General characteristics:

• Grows from underground bulbs (geophytes).
• Produces narrow, strap-like green leaves.
• Flowers are typically star-shaped with 6 white (sometimes green-striped) petals.
• Many species open in sunlight and close in low light or at night.
• Flowering season varies by species, but many South African types bloom in spring.

Habitat:

• Found in grasslands, renosterveld, fynbos edges, and rocky or sandy soils.
• Many species are adapted to seasonal rainfall patterns (winter or summer rainfall depending on region).

Cultivation:

• Prefers well-drained soil and full sun.
• Requires a dry dormancy period after flowering when leaves die back.
• Water lightly during active growth; avoid overwatering during dormancy.
• Bulbs can multiply over time, forming clumps.

Notes:

• Some species are highly ornamental, while others are considered invasive outside their native range.
• A few species may be toxic to livestock if ingested.

Haworthia truncata

A fascinating and highly collectible succulent, Haworthia truncata is instantly recognisable for its unusual, windowed leaves. The thick, upright leaves have flat, translucent tips that allow sunlight to penetrate the plant, creating an attractive pattern of lines and subtle colour.

Growing in a compact, orderly arrangement, Haworthia truncata is a favourite among collectors of unusual succulents. It prefers bright, indirect light or gentle morning sun and a very well-draining growing medium. Water only when the soil has dried out, taking extra care to avoid excess moisture around the roots.