Adromischus (short-stemmed)

Origin

The plant genus *Adromischus*, also called short-stem, belongs to the family Crassulaceae. The approximately 40 species native to South Africa and Namibia are characterized by their thick stems. The genus name comes from Greek and means something like "thick stem".

Appearance

Adromischus is particularly popular because of its beautiful, thick, spotted leaves. It is a herbaceous plant, often with a thickened base to the stem. The stems are usually knobbly and in some species covered with aerial roots. The flowers are whitish to pink and sit on long flower stalks.

Care

Location:When choosing a location, you should select a sunny to semi-shaded spot. They are susceptible to sunburn, so they always need to be gradually acclimated to the sun when changing locations.
Substrate:A mixture of cactus and succulent soil and mineral components is suitable as a substrate. The substrate should be loose and permeable so that excess water can drain away well.
Irrigation:Adromischus does not need to be watered often, and only when the substrate is completely dry. Too much water leads to waterlogging, which succulents generally do not tolerate well.
Fertilizer:You can fertilize approximately every four weeks with cactus and succulent fertilizer. However, fertilizing is only necessary during the growing season, i.e. in the warmer months from April to September.
Summer/Winter:In summer, the succulent can be placed outdoors after gradually acclimating it to direct sunlight, but it should be brought back indoors when temperatures drop below 10°C. Adromischus should be overwintered in a bright location at approximately 10°C to 15°C. Fertilizing stops, and watering is reduced to a minimum. The cooler the plant is kept, the less watering is required.

Popular species

Adromischus cooperi:This succulent is also known by its German name Kiebitzei-Kurzstiel. It has the growth habit of a perennial with dark green leaves and red flowers that bloom between June and August.
Adromischus 'Aubergine':This succulent is a hybrid and has a special leaf shape. It is green and reddish and forms dark lilac-colored, tubular flowers.

Note:Adromischus is generally non-toxic, but no guarantee can be given for its compatibility with animals.