Gasteria Lilliputana

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 retusa Variegated

A beautiful and highly desirable form of the South African Haworthia retusa. It forms compact rosettes of thick, triangular leaves with characteristic translucent “windows”. The variegated form develops striking cream, yellow or white markings mixed with green, making every plant unique.

🌱 Care: Bright filtered light or approximately 50–60% shade; avoid harsh midday sun, especially on the pale variegated sections. Use a very well-draining mineral-rich succulent mix and allow it to dry between waterings.

✨ Interesting fact: The transparent leaf windows allow light to penetrate into the leaf—an adaptation associated with Haworthias that grow partly recessed into the soil.

⭐ A must-have for Haworthia collectors, particularly specimens showing strong, balanced variegation.

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.