Gasteria pillansii (Namaqua-beestong (Afr.))


Botanical Information

FamilyAsphodelaceae
GenusGasteria
Speciespillansii
CategoryPerennials, Tropicals
OriginSouth Africa.

Details

USDA Hardiness Zone11
USDA Hardiness Ref.
Canadian Hardiness ZoneRequires cool season protection under glass.
Canada Hardiness Ref.
RHS Hardiness ZoneH1c
RHS Hardiness Ref.
Temperature (°C)5
Temperature (°F)10
Height20 - 50 cm
Spread20 - 60 cm
GrowthFast
Flowering PeriodJuly, August, September

Description and Growing Information

ShapeClumping.
LandscapeBorders, rock gardens, containers, potted indoor or outdoor plant, within a succulent collection or arrangement or a specimen.
PropagationDivision of offsets (pups).
CultivationPlant in loose, well-draining cactus mix, gravelly or sandy soil in full to partial sun. Repot annually for optimal growth.
PestsLeaf spot and leaf rot; mites, aphids and mealybugs may be an issue.
Notable SpecimensCentennial Conservatory, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada.
HabitatFlat, quartz outcroppings.
Leaf DescriptionLeaf and perianth sizes vary by environment and sun exposure. Leaves broad-lanceolate, thick and fleshy; leaves measuring from 10 to 25 cm in length, 2 - 6 cm in width and 3 - 7 cm in thickness. Variegation visible in the form of small spots along the leaves.
Flower DescriptionDrooping lanceolate-pinnate blooms, closed and facing downward, measuring between 1 - 3 cm in length along solitary flowering stems.
Colour DescriptionLeaves vary in colour from bright, vivid to deep green hues, with creamy-white variegation. Flowers bloom in varying shades of orange to pinkish-orange.
Texture DescriptionSmooth and waxy.

Photographs