Aloinopsis broomii L.Bolus
Namaqualand aloinopsis
Species described by Louisa Bolus, endemic to Namaqualand in the Northern Cape province of South Africa. Inhabits dry quartzite or shale soils of the semi-arid Namaqualand plains, where daytime temperatures are extreme. The small rosettes with very short rounded leaves remain almost entirely buried during summer. Bright yellow short-lived flowers that appear on sunny winter days.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Aloinopsis |
| Growth Habit | Dwarf rosette, winter-growing geophyte in Namaqualand |
| Conservation Status | Data Deficient; endemic to Namaqualand |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.5 |
| Type | Crushed quartzite or silica sand, perfect drainage, no organic matter |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Very short and rounded, 1–2 cm long; grey-green surface with multiple white or translucent tubercles; entire margin.
ecoBright yellow with many narrow petals; prominent yellow stamens; open only on clear sunny days.
ecoVoluminous taproot, frequently 2–3 times larger than the aerial part; allows survival in the dry summer substrate.
ecoDwarf, 2–5 cm diameter; frequently partially buried in the native mineral substrate.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Crushed quartzite or silica sand, perfect drainage, no organic matter
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow in pure fine quartzite substrate in autumn.
- 2 Optimal germination temperature: 12–18 °C.
- 3 Water very lightly by capillary action; never waterlogging.
- 4 Seedlings are extremely slow in the first year; do not rush.
G
S
Every 3 years in autumn, with great care for the taproot
No fertilisation during the first year; thereafter a very diluted mineral fertiliser once in winter.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Not toxic; no known toxicity data.
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Plant Health
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"Namaqualand harbours exceptional diversity of geophytic succulents that bloom massively and ephemerally in winter, creating the famous 'flower fields' of the region. A. broomii is one of the smallest and most demanding species of this ecosystem."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.