Adromischus maculatus aka Spotted Adromischus

Adromischus maculatus is an evergreen succulent in the Crassulaceae family. Gardeners know it as calico hearts or chocolate-drop. It comes from South Africa's Cape region. Its range includes the Langeberg Mountains, from near Worcester to north of George. There, it grows among rocks on high slopes. This perennial grows slowly and keeps its leaves year-round.

Garden plants reach about 0.3–1.6 feet (0.1–0.5 metres) tall and wide. They take two to five years to reach full size. The plant has a brown caudex, a thickened stem base. This base grows larger with age and has few branches. Short, partly woody stems may lie along the ground. The thick leaves are flat, with broad tips and narrow bases. Their firm edges may feel horn-like. Leaves range from green to grey-green or grey-brown. Dark purple spots may cover them, though young leaves can lack spots. Strong sun can turn the leaves red.

Slender, upright flower stalks rise above the leaves. They reach about 0.7–1.1 feet (0.2–0.35 metres) long. The small flowers form tubes of pale yellow-green. Their lobes may be white, pink, or pale purple. RHS and LLIFLE report summer flowers. Chicago Botanic Garden lists January through April instead. Plants seldom flower indoors, according to LLIFLE.

Grow this plant in a pot with fast-draining cactus compost. RHS recommends full sun, while LLIFLE favours some shade. Chicago Botanic Garden lists both sun and partial shade. Sudden exposure to midday sun can scorch the leaves. Give plants good airflow and let soil dry between waterings. RHS advises watering from spring through autumn and keeping plants dry in winter. It recommends winter temperatures of at least 7°C. Its H2 rating means the plant should not freeze. LLIFLE reports brief frost tolerance when plants stay dry. Chicago lists USDA zones 10–12.

Containers and sheltered patios suit this small plant. Chicago also lists border planting and use as a specimen. It reports resistance to deer. RHS says the plant needs no pruning. Sow seed in spring, or take leaf and stem cuttings in summer. Mealybugs and greenfly may attack it; LLIFLE also mentions scale. Wet soil can cause root rot. Older plants may develop a bare centre. Side cuttings can replace these ageing plants.