Conophytum obcordellum aka Conophytum Obcordellum

Conophytum obcordellum is a small succulent in the Aizoaceae family. Its common names include greater dumpling and obcordellate cone plant. It comes from South Africa's Cape region. Kew lists the Western Cape as its native range. LLIFLE also records it near Calvinia in the Northern Cape. It grows in desert or dry shrubland, on granite and sandstone.

This evergreen plant forms low mats or tight cushions. Garden plants reach about 0.33 feet [0.1 metres] tall and wide. They take two to five years to reach full size. Each small body consists of a pair of fleshy leaves. These bodies measure about 0.03 feet [0.01 metres] across. Their tops may curve inward or bulge outward. A short cleft marks the growing point. The grey-green or silvery leaves bear brown, green, or reddish marks. Some dots stand above the surface and join into lines. The sides can turn pink or deep red. Marks may become bright red during the resting period.

The flowers open at night and have a strong scent. Their narrow petals spread out in a loose star shape. RHS describes white flowers about 0.05 feet [0.015 metres] across. LLIFLE records white, yellow, and pink-cream shades with pale yellow centres. Flowering runs from late summer into autumn. LLIFLE gives August to November for plants grown in Europe. The fruit is a capsule with four to six chambers. These capsules open in response to moisture.

RHS recommends growing this species under glass in full light. It needs a sheltered site and soil that drains well. Use two parts sharp sand, two parts loam, and one part leaf mould. It accepts acid, neutral, or alkaline soil. Keep the air dry around established plants. Give small amounts of water during active growth. Keep it dry for the rest of the year. RHS says it needs no extra fertiliser. Its H2 rating means it tolerates cool conditions but cannot survive freezing.

Its small size suits containers, with protection from frost. The marked leaves provide interest even when flowers are absent. RHS lists patio and container planting among its uses. No pruning is needed. Aphids may attack it, though RHS reports few disease problems. Growers can raise new plants from seed or offsets. Seeds need gentle warmth and high humidity to germinate. Reduce humidity once the seedlings emerge. The supplied sources give no evidence about food uses or toxicity.