The genus Haworthia can be found in the countries of Mozambique, Namibia, Lesotho, and Swaziland yet their centre of diversity is in the southwestern Cape of South Africa. … Most grow as small succulent rosettes though some, like Haworthia truncata (pictured below), grow in linear patterns.
Keeping this in consideration, why does South Africa have so many succulents?
According to Business Insider, succulent poachers are roaming across South Africa, where about a third of the planet’s succulents are found. They’re digging up these rare plants and cacti, and selling them to plant lovers across Asia, Europe, and North America to quench the rising demand for houseplants.
Secondly, how do I identify a succulent?
Here are some of the plant characteristics to look for when identifying succulents:
- Leaf – shape, size and thickness.
- Color – of leaves, flowers or stems.
- Markings or bumps on the leaves.
- Flower – shape, color, number of blooms and petals.
- Stem – color, texture, length.
- Ciliate hairs.
- Epicuticular wax.
- Spikes, spines or smooth.
How do succulents grow in South Africa?
As these plants mostly thrive in arid conditions, place them in bright direct sunlight rather than deep shade. If they are planted in shade, try plant them under a tree that provides breaks of sunshine. Ensure the soil that you plant your succulents in has good drainage.
Are cactus indigenous to South Africa?
South Africa has no indigenous cacti, although some of our local succulents resemble members of the Cactaceae family. Most of our cacti were introduced from South America in the early 1900s. Fortunately, most species are not invasive aliens because they need controlled conditions to germinate and survive.
Where do succulents grow best?
Since most succulents come from dry, arid, areas like deserts and other climates of similar temperament, most of them do well in full sun. Cacti, jade plants and varieties of agave in particular do well in full sun.
Where are succulents originally from?
How often should succulents be watered?
They pull water out of the soil at a remarkable rate as they make new stems, leaves, roots and blooms. You may water them three times a week, depending on conditions like light and temperature. In the winter, succulents go dormant. Growing stops, so you’ll only need to water them once or twice for the entire season.
Where do succulents grow in in South Africa?
A succulent garden is not suited for every province in South Africa, they are ideal for landscapes in the Northern Cape, Western Cape, North West, Bloemfontein and parts of Gauteng. A little bit of water in growing season will keep the xeriscape flourishing in their preferred parched terrain.
Where do succulents live naturally?
They have a wide and rich range of habitats and are often found in environments that would otherwise be uninhabited. Most come from dry areas, deserts and semi-deserts ranging from Africa to North and South America; still others are found in mountainous regions and rain forests.
How tall do succulents get?
Generally, indoor succulents will only reach heights up to 6 inches because there is no opportunity for light penetration. However, if you expose your plant to more natural sunlight it will get taller since sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis and gaining energy for plant life.
