Succulents

Anacampseros rufescens, related to the more familiar Portulaca, is native to South Africa (Karoo) and forms small spiraling star-shaped rosettes with fleshy dark olive green pointed leaves that turn purple in bright light. Attractive, white filament-like hairs are present along the stems adding a nice contrast to the dark foliage. Single flowers arise on 3”-4” stems above the leaves and are pink to rose-purple, 3/4" wide, and resemble flattened Portulaca flowers; they open in late afternoon closing every night. It grows best with full sun to partial shade and ample airflow, with a well-drained soil mix. Water thoroughly when soil is dry to the touch. Drought tolerant, and suitable for rock gardens and xeriscaping, the slowly creeping stems cluster freely to form mats as a small area ground cover about 4” tall and wide. A. rufescens also makes an excellent potted windowsill plant. It has good cold tolerance but protect from frost to avoid scarring. When mature they reach up to 6". They bloom throughout the year, opening in the afternoon and closing in early evening. Their color is usually white to pale purple. The more light, the brighter more vivid colors. To propagate plant seeds Anacampseros are from South Africa. When mature they can reach up to 6 inches. They grow flowers intermittently throughout the year, generally in summer. They open in the afternoon and close in early evening. Their color is usually white to pale purple. Anacampseros rufescens 'Sunrise' is a hybrid with leaves varying from green at the base to pink and yellow at the tips; the more light, the brighter and more vivid the colors. This species forms rosettes up to 4 inches across. On hot days, its pink, 3/4-inch flowers will open. Not frost tolerant. Great greenhouse, windowsill, or outdoors if in warm climates.