Anacampseros is a genus of roughly a hundred species of small perennial succulent plants placed in the family Anacampserotaceae, within the order Caryophyllales. The genus was historically classified in the broad family Portulacaceae, but molecular work around 2010 led to its transfer to the newly recognized Anacampserotaceae.
Plants are low-growing perennials that form dense mats of undershrubs or sprawling herbs. Many species develop a swollen caudex or tuberous rootstock at maturity, an adaptation that stores water during dry periods. The succulent leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and can be lanceolate or rounded in outline. In numerous species the leaves are closely packed and partly concealed beneath papery or thread-like (filamentous) fascicled stipules — a distinctive character of the genus. Flowers are actinomorphic and delicate: two caducous sepals flank five fugacious petals that may be white, pink, or pale purple. Blooms open only on sunny days during summer and close quickly. The many stamens are attached to the bases of the petals, and the style is trifid. The superior ovary matures into a three-valved unilocular capsule bearing numerous seeds on a free-standing central placenta; seeds are compressed and sometimes angled or three-winged.
The genus is native primarily to Southern Africa, with additional representation in Ethiopia and Latin America. GBIF records approximately 50 accepted species. Well-known members include Anacampseros rufescens, a popular subject in succulent cultivation, and species such as Anacampseros marlothii and Anacampseros affinis from the southern African flora.
Etymology
The genus name Anacampseros is an ancient plant name applied to herbs that were believed to restore lost love. The same name had previously been applied to the genus Sedum (family Crassulaceae) by Philip Miller, making Anacampseros Mill. a synonym of Sedum, while the current usage follows Linnaeus (L.).
Distribution
Anacampseros is native to Southern Africa, with outlying occurrences in Ethiopia and Latin America. The genus was once thought to include an Australian representative, Grahamia australiana, but that species has since been transferred out and the genus is now regarded as absent from Australia.
Taxonomy Notes
Until around 2010, Anacampseros was placed in the large, polyphyletic family Portulacaceae. Subsequent molecular phylogenetic studies led to its recognition as the type genus of the segregate family Anacampserotaceae, within the order Caryophyllales. Note that Anacampseros Mill. is a nomenclatural synonym of Sedum L. (family Crassulaceae) and should not be confused with the succulent genus treated here.
Cultivation
Several Anacampseros species, especially A. rufescens, are cultivated as ornamental succulents and are popular in collections. Plants require free-draining substrate, full sun or bright light, and minimal watering in the dormant season, consistent with care for southern African succulents. They flower on sunny summer days, with blooms that open only in direct light.
Cultural Uses
Folk uses of the genus are regionally variable and at times contradictory. Some species are considered narcotic or poisonous in certain traditions, yet feeding trials on sheep have not confirmed toxicity. Several species are used in adulterating or flavouring beer, and some appear to hydrolyse certain carbohydrates. Additional uses include employment as charms and unspecified medicines in local traditions.
