Aloinopsis lodewykii L.Bolus
Northern Namaqualand aloinopsis
Aloinopsis species described by Louisa Bolus, endemic to Namaqualand in the northwest of South Africa. This region, famous for its winter flowering explosion of geophytes and annuals, harbours several of the rarest and least cultivated Aloinopsis. A. lodewykii forms rosettes of very short grey leaves with white papillae or tubercles. Strictly winter growing cycle. Diurnal yellow flowers.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Aloinopsis |
| Growth Habit | Dwarf grey-leafed rosette, strictly winter geophyte |
| Conservation Status | Data Deficient; endemic to Namaqualand, possibly threatened |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.0 |
| Type | Pure quartzite sand or crushed shale, no organic matter |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Very short, obovate, 1–2.5 cm long; grey-blue with white tubercles or papillae; entire margins or with minute teeth.
ecoYellow, 2–3 cm diameter; narrow and numerous petals; diurnal; bright yellow stamens.
ecoCompact and deep taproot; fundamental for survival in the extreme climates of Namaqualand.
ecoDwarf, 2–5 cm diameter; extremely compact; almost entirely buried in the native substrate.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Pure quartzite sand or crushed shale, no organic matter
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow in pure quartzite sand in terracotta trays.
- 2 Cool night temperature (10–14 °C) essential for germination.
- 3 Water only by capillary action; daytime temperature 18–22 °C.
- 4 Seedlings grow very slowly; do not force.
S
A
Every 3–4 years; minimum possible handling
No fertilisation recommended; if applied, minimum dose of nitrogen-free minerals in mid-winter.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No toxicity data.
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Plant Health
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"Namaqualand experiences one of the greatest daily thermal amplitudes on the planet, with summers exceeding 45 °C during the day and cool nocturnal temperatures. Aloinopsis from this region have developed extreme adaptations to thermal stress combined with exclusively winter rainfall cycles."
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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.