Adromischus trigynus

Adromischus trigynus, or calico hearts, belongs to the Crassulaceae family. It is a small succulent subshrub from South Africa. It grows in dry shrubland and on rocky ridges. Records place it in mountains south of the Little Karoo. Its range includes sites from Worcester east to Uniondale. The name Adromischus rupicola refers to the same species. Both RHS and LLIFLE link these two names.

The plant grows slowly and forms small, low clumps. Its rosettes reach about 0.33 feet [0.10 metres] across. A few thick, flat leaves make up each rosette. The leaves are broad, rounded, or wider near their tips. They reach 0.20 feet [0.06 metres] long. Their width reaches about 0.13 feet [0.04 metres]. Brown blotches mark the grey-green leaves, which have silver-edged margins. Short, stout stems lie along the ground and branch sparsely. Older plants form a swollen base called a caudex. A large, tuberous rootstock lies beneath the plant.

The flowers have no stalks of their own. Their pale yellow-green petals have pink or red tips. Indoor plants seldom flower, so leaves provide their main display. The fruit is a dry follicle that holds many seeds. The compact form suits pot culture, where its marked leaves remain visible. LLIFLE describes this species as fairly easy to grow. Its slow growth means changes in size take time.

Grow it in partial shade with soil that drains well. It also tolerates full sun after a gradual change. A sudden move into midday sun can scorch its leaves. Soak the soil, then let it dry before watering again. Give less water in winter, without letting the plant shrivel. Keep the air dry and avoid wet winter conditions. LLIFLE recommends a minimum temperature of 5°C. It also reports brief survival at −7°C with dry conditions and good drainage. This short cold tolerance does not imply reliable outdoor winter hardiness.

Mealybugs can attack the plant, while scale occurs less often. Rot may start in the tuberous base or dried flower stems. The centre can become bare as the clump ages. Side cuttings can replace an old, bare-centred plant. Leaf and stem cuttings provide the usual means of propagation. Let detached leaves dry for a few days before planting. Repotting every two years forms part of the stated care routine.