Monsonia
The genus belongs to the Geraniaceae family, but is distinguished by its radially symmetrical flower. The distribution is wide (South Africa, western Asia and eastern India) and includes herbaceous plant species and some succulents native to the arid areas of South Africa, where they are known as Bushman candles due to the thick waxy secretion secreted by the epidermis of the stem. Once included in the Sarcocaulon genus, Monsonia are attractive for their large flowers with delicate petals. Slow growing, they are unfortunately subject of illicit harvesting for commercial purposes which decimates their natural populations.
GROWING MEDIUM Mixture of lapillus and pumice with a small portion of peat (20%). |
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EXPOSURE Gradual exposure to full sun in conditions of good ventilation |
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COLD TOLERANCE Cold winter temperature with minimum night of at least +2 °C (35.5 °F). |
WATERING Water moderately waiting for the soil to dry. |
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GROWING SEASON A winter cycle with growt from September to April. |
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NUTRITION Fertilization low in nitrogen with NPK titre similar to 8:16:32. |
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Monsonia crassicaulis
Monsonia species with stocky stems, up to two centimeters thick, thorny and ashy-yellowish in colour. Interesting for the large white or straw-colored flowers. Growth is autumn-winter. Learn More