Anacampseros arachnoides (Haw.) Sims
Spiderweb anacampseros
Anacampseros arachnoides is a small succulent native to the Karoo and Western Cape of South Africa, famous for the dense web of silky white hairs covering the rosette, reminiscent of a spider web. It grows in rocky crevices in quartz and schist soils within Fynbos and Succulent Karoo communities. Its ephemeral pink flowers only open for 2–4 hours during sunny afternoons. One of the most popular species in the genus among collectors.
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© Ronald Flipphi (Dwergenpaartje)
CC BY-SA 4.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Anacampserotaceae |
| Genus | Anacampseros |
| Growth Habit | Small dense-rosette succulent, clump-forming, 2–5 cm in diameter |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC, IUCN) |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.5 |
| Type | Very free-draining mineral substrate with 60–70% coarse sand or perlite |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Ovate to elliptic, fleshy, grey-green, 5–12 mm, densely covered at the margins and axils by silky white filaments forming a characteristic cobweb.
ecoEphemeral, pale pink to deep pink, 5 petals, 10–15 mm in diameter, opening only 2–4 hours at midday on sunny days. Slender peduncles 3–8 cm.
ecoVery short, semi-subterranean stem; over time may develop a small thickened caudex at the base.
ecoFibrous and shallow, adapted to nutrient-poor and well-drained soils on rocky outcrops.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Very free-draining mineral substrate with 60–70% coarse sand or perlite
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow on moist mineral substrate shallowly, without covering.
- 2 Keep at 20–25 °C with high ambient humidity under film or glass.
- 3 Remove cover upon germination; transplant at 3–4 months.
Small terracotta pot to maximise drainage.
Overwatering in winter — the number one cause of death.
Every 3–4 years or when roots emerge from drainage holes
Once in spring with cactus fertilizer diluted to 25%
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No known toxicity records for humans or pets
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Plant Health
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"The white axillary hairs forming the 'cobweb' are an adaptation to reduce water loss and reflect excessive solar radiation in the Karoo. In cultivation, the intensity of the cobweb decreases under low light."
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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.