Anacampseros filamentosa (Haw.) Sims
Silky anacampseros
Anacampseros filamentosa is one of the most cultivated species in the genus, native to Namaqualand and Northern Cape, South Africa. Distinguished by long silky white filaments emerging between the fleshy leaves, covering the rosette like a silver mane. Very prolific in seeds, which ripen in explosive capsules. Its pink flowers open briefly at midday.
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© Krzysztof Ziarnek, Kenraiz
CC BY-SA 4.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Anacampserotaceae |
| Genus | Anacampseros |
| Growth Habit | Compact rosette succulent 3–6 cm, tending to clump with age |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC, IUCN) |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.5 |
| Type | Very free-draining mineral substrate with high percentage of perlite or quartz sand |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Elliptic to spatulate, succulent, dark green to bronze, 8–15 mm, with long silky white filaments in the axils and margins.
ecoEphemeral, pink to pinkish-red, 5 petals, 15–20 mm in diameter. Open only 2–3 hours on sunny days. Blooms spring–summer.
ecoVery short stem; can form small colonies through basal sprouting.
ecoFibrous, robust for the plant size; tolerate complete substrate drying.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Very free-draining mineral substrate with high percentage of perlite or quartz sand
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Scatter seeds on moist mineral substrate without covering.
- 2 Keep at 22–26 °C with plastic cover.
- 3 Remove cover after germination; reduce humidity gradually.
Excellent for beginners; very robust if not overwatered.
Watering during winter dormancy.
Every 3–4 years
Once a year in spring, cactus fertilizer highly diluted (25%)
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No known toxicity records
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Plant Health
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"The seed capsules of A. filamentosa open explosively when wetted, dispersing seeds up to 30 cm. This hydrochastic dispersal mechanism is fascinating and causes the plant to self-sow easily on window ledges."
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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.