Schwantesia borcherdsii is a unique succulent known for its striking appearance and unusual form. Its hardy nature makes it a resilient and rewarding addition to any plant collection.
Meet Schwantesia borcherdsii
Schwantesia borcherdsii is a small succulent with fleshy, smooth, bluish-green leaves. These leaves often have a flat upper surface, a keeled lower surface, and sometimes reddish margins. They are arranged in pairs; as new pairs form, older leaves shrivel and die, a process common among “living stone” plants. It typically grows 4 to 6 inches tall.
This plant belongs to the Aizoaceae family, also known as mesembs, and resembles genera like Lithops and Lapidaria. Native to the arid Northern Cape Province of South Africa, Schwantesia borcherdsii has adapted to environments with low, seasonal rainfall, allowing it to tolerate drought.
Schwantesia borcherdsii Care Guide
Light Needs
Schwantesia borcherdsii thrives in bright, direct sunlight. A south-facing window is ideal to provide the intense light needed for robust growth and flowering. If natural light is insufficient, especially during winter, grow lights can supplement to ensure adequate light levels and prevent etiolation. Gradually acclimate the plant to increased light to prevent sunburn.
Watering Practices
Proper watering for Schwantesia borcherdsii involves a “soak and dry” method to prevent root rot. Water thoroughly until water drains from the pot’s bottom, then allow the soil to dry out completely before the next watering. The plant’s leaves may appear less turgid when it needs water. During its summer dormancy, watering should be minimal, only when the plant shows signs of shriveling.
Ideal Soil Mix
An extremely well-draining, gritty soil mix is essential for Schwantesia borcherdsii to prevent water from lingering around its roots. A suitable blend includes components like perlite, pumice, coarse sand, or horticultural grit, mixed with a small amount of potting soil. This composition ensures rapid drainage and aeration. Standard cactus mixes may not provide sufficient drainage and may require additional grit.
Temperature and Airflow
Schwantesia borcherdsii prefers warm temperatures during its active growing season, from autumn through spring. Slightly cooler temperatures are tolerated during summer dormancy. Maintaining good air circulation around the plant is important, especially in humid environments, as stagnant air can contribute to fungal issues. Temperatures should not drop below 43°F (6°C) for extended periods.
Fertilizing
Schwantesia borcherdsii has minimal fertilization requirements, reflecting its adaptation to nutrient-poor natural environments. If needed, apply a highly diluted, low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer sparingly during the plant’s active growing period. Over-fertilizing can be detrimental, potentially leading to weak growth or chemical burn.
Propagating Schwantesia borcherdsii
Propagating Schwantesia borcherdsii is primarily achieved through seeds, as cuttings are not a consistently successful method. To propagate, sow the tiny seeds in a gritty, well-draining soil mix. Maintain consistent warmth and humidity for germination, often by covering the container with a clear dome or plastic.
After sowing, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until germination occurs. This process requires patience, as germination can be slow and sporadic, taking several weeks or months. Once seedlings emerge, gradually reduce humidity and increase airflow to acclimate them to drier conditions, allowing them to develop into mature plants.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
Root rot is a frequent problem for Schwantesia borcherdsii, typically caused by overwatering or inadequate soil drainage. Symptoms include mushy stems or leaves, and a general decline in plant health. Addressing this requires repotting into fresh, well-draining soil and adjusting watering habits to allow the soil to dry completely between applications.
Etiolation is characterized by stretched, pale, and leggy growth, indicating insufficient light. Moving the plant to a brighter location with more direct sunlight, such as a south-facing window or under a grow light, can correct this issue.
Sunburn manifests as bleached, white, or scorched spots on the leaves, resulting from sudden exposure to intense sunlight without proper acclimatization. While often not fatal, it leaves permanent marks. To prevent sunburn, gradually introduce your Schwantesia borcherdsii to higher light levels over several days or weeks, especially if it has been in a shadier spot.