Concrete Leaf

A true marvel of mimicry, Titanopsis calcarea is a small succulent that looks strikingly like the limestone rocks among which it grows in the wild. It forms small, creeping mats of rosettes, with each leaf tipped with a distinctive, bumpy, encrusted surface of greyish tubercles. This unique texture serves as camouflage. In the UK, it is a plant for the specialist or the dedicated indoor hobbyist (H2), requiring a very bright windowsill or greenhouse to thrive. In late autumn or winter, it produces attractive, daisy-like yellow flowers that open in the afternoon sun. Because it is highly adapted to arid conditions, it is extremely sensitive to overwatering and requires a very gritty, soil-less or low-organic potting medium. It is an excellent choice for a miniature 'stoney' themed container. Its slow growth and fascinating texture make it a conversation piece in any succulent collection, provided it is kept dry and bright.

Sun: Full sun.

Soil: Very gritty, mineral-based compost.

Hardiness: H2 — down to 1°C.

Flowering: Oct, Nov, Dec.