Anacampseros retusa

Anacampseros retusa is a small succulent subshrub from southern Africa. It stores water in its fleshy parts. Kew lists its native range as the Cape Provinces. LLIFLE gives a wider range, from southern Namibia through Namaqualand. It also notes plants near Ceres Karoo and Worcester. The plant grows on rocky flats and slopes with stones. It lives in desert and dry shrubland.

This plant forms low rosettes with flat tops. Garden plants reach about 0.33–0.49 feet [0.10–0.15 metres] tall. LLIFLE also gives a smaller height of 0.15 feet [0.045 metres]. A short, thick base, called a caudex, holds branching stems. Fleshy leaves grow close and hide the gaps along each stem. They range from club-like to wedge-like and have blunt tips. Leaves may be green, brown-green, or almost black-green. Small tufts of wool grow between the leaves. Stronger light makes the leaf colours richer.

Several pink flowers rise above the leaves on tall stems. Their flat faces have pale to deep pink petals. Each flower has about 25 stamens, the male flower parts. Most blooms come in summer, but some open at other times. They open in the afternoon and close by early evening. The flowers are self-fertile: their own pollen can help set seed. Thin, upright threads hold the winged seeds. Wind then carries the seeds away. Young plants grow at a slow pace at first. LLIFLE notes blooms once plants reach about 0.66 feet [0.20 metres] across.

Grow it in a gritty mix that drains well. Use a mix with little organic matter. Outdoor plants suit sandy or rocky soil that drains well. Give more water through spring as new growth starts. Keep watering through summer, but let extra water drain away. Never leave the pot standing in water. Give less water from late summer, and keep plants dry in winter. LLIFLE lists USDA zones 9–11. It advises winter warmth of 5–10°C and shelter from cold. Dry plants may live through brief, light frost.

Its small size makes it suited to pots. It can spend summer outdoors where the site and climate allow. Cold and too much water pose the main growing risks. Poor drainage can cause rot. Too much water and shade can cause swollen, loose growth. Take care with the roots when repotting; they are sensitive. Use stem cuttings or seed to raise more plants. The supplied sources give no evidence of food uses or toxicity.