Adromischus schuldtianus aka Plover Eggs

Adromischus schuldtianus is a small succulent shrub in the Crassulaceae family. Kew places its native range in central Namibia. LLIFLE also records it in southwestern Namibia. It grows in desert and dry shrubland habitats. On granite hills, it fills cracks that often lie in shade. The plant forms a low clump around a swollen, branched base called a caudex.

The leafy plant reaches about 0.23 feet (0.07 m) tall. Its spread can reach 0.49 feet (0.15 m). Short, upright stems taper above their thick bases. Their grey or grey-green bark peels as they age. The plant has fibrous roots beneath its swollen base. Its fleshy leaves range from rounded to narrow and spoon-shaped. They look pale green beneath a dusty white coating. Some have grey-green or maroon spots; others have none. The upper leaf edges may ripple and carry a purple-red tint. Leaves detach with little force, so handling needs care.

Flower stalks rise well above the low mound of leaves. They reach about 0.66–1.31 feet (0.20–0.40 m) tall. The inflorescence is a spike-like thyrse with single-flowered cymes. Its stalk ranges from grey-green to almost white. Upright buds have lengthwise grooves and taper toward their tips. The flowers have pale green tubes with a powdery coating. Their small lobes range from white to pale pink. Deep mauve marks the throat of each flower.

In cultivation, this species grows best with partial shade. Use a mineral-rich mix with little organic matter and excellent drainage. A small pot with drainage holes helps limit excess moisture. Repot every two to three years. Water well, then let the soil dry before watering again. Reduce water in winter, but avoid severe shrivelling. The air should stay very dry. LLIFLE recommends a minimum of 5°C. It also reports brief survival at −7°C under dry, well-drained conditions.

This species grows fairly fast, but rot makes its care challenging. Rot can strike during both summer and winter. Its small size suits container growing, though drainage remains vital. Growers can raise new plants from leaves or stem cuttings. Let a detached leaf dry for a few days first. Then place its base partly into the growing mix. Keep the old leaf attached until it dries away.