Conophytum verrucosum aka Conophytum Verrucosum

Conophytum verrucosum is a small succulent in the Aizoaceae family. It comes from South Africa’s Western Cape, including Namaqualand. Its native habitat lies in desert or dry shrubland. Plants grow among quartz stones, at ground level or below. Their shapes and colours help them blend with nearby stones. The older name Ophthalmophyllum verrucosum refers to the same species.

This stemless perennial grows alone or forms small clusters. Each body consists of two fleshy leaves of unequal size. Bodies reach about 0.07 feet [0.02 metres] tall. Their sides may look rounded or somewhat flat-topped. The upper face has an oval outline and translucent windows. A cleft runs across the whole body between the leaves. Leaf colour ranges from reddish brown to olive green. The surface bears small bumps, which help identify the species. A rough, pale brown sheath stays around the body. Flowers may be white or pale pink.

Grow this plant in a bright place with sharp drainage. It suits a small pot or an alpine house. Outdoor sites need dry rock cracks and shelter from winter wet. Use a gritty, sandy mix rather than rich soil. Root rot poses a risk when drainage is poor. Good airflow also matters when growing it in a container. The source gives USDA zones 9a–11 for its hardiness. It recommends a minimum temperature of 41°F [5°C]. Dry plants may survive brief cold down to 19°F [−7°C]. This brief tolerance does not imply safety through prolonged frost.

Water with care, and let the soil dry between soakings. Keep summer watering very light during its dormant period. Increase water during active growth once the old leaves dry. Too much water can split the skin and leave scars. Feed once during growth with a dilute, low-nitrogen succulent feed. Excess feeding encourages soft growth that is prone to fungal disease. Plants can stay in the same pot for several years. Small individual pots may give better flowering than larger containers.

This species has value as a small collector’s plant. Autumn seed sowing offers a means of propagation. Cuttings need at least one head and some attached root. Let their cut surfaces dry for a few days before planting. Rooting cuttings can be difficult, so seed offers another route.