Anacampseros alstonii Schönland
Alston's anacampseros
Anacampseros alstonii (also classified as Avonia quinaria subsp. alstonii) is a caudex-bearing succulent, very attractive in collections. Native to Steinkopf and surroundings in Namaqualand, it develops a thickened woody trunk that can reach 3–5 cm in diameter, from which grow stems covered in white papery scales. Its pink flowers are ephemeral and of great beauty.
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© Alexey Yakovlev (yakovlev.alexey)
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Anacampserotaceae |
| Genus | Anacampseros |
| Growth Habit | Caudiciform succulent; thickened trunk with branches covered in papery scales |
| Conservation Status | Near Threatened (NT, IUCN) — fragmented habitat in Namaqualand |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.0 |
| Type | Pure mineral substrate with no organic matter |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Hidden under white papery stipular scales; leaves reduced to functional scales.
ecoEphemeral, deep pink to magenta, 5 petals, 15–20 mm; open only 2–3 hours. Blooms spring–summer.
ecoWoody caudex 3–5 cm in diameter, grey-brown, from which multiple thin branches covered in scales emerge.
ecoRobust root system adapted to prolonged drought; part of the roots may also thicken as storage.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Pure mineral substrate with no organic matter
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow in pure quartz substrate.
- 2 Temperature 24–28 °C, high initial humidity.
- 3 Extremely slow growth; caudex takes years to form.
The pot should be proportional to the caudex, not too large.
Burying the caudex completely causes rot.
Every 5–6 years; minimal disturbance
Once every 2 years in spring, very diluted
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No known toxicity records
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Plant Health
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"The caudex of A. alstonii grows very slowly — a specimen with a 4 cm caudex may be 20–30 years old. In Namaqualand it is found in crevices of gneiss and quartz outcrops. Highly sought at succulent auctions for its rarity and sculptural form."
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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.