Anacampseros alta Poelln.
Tall anacampseros
Anacampseros alta is a species from the Northern Cape of South Africa described by Poellnitz. The epithet 'alta' alludes to its slightly more erect habit compared with its congeners, though it remains a dwarf plant. It grows on quartz rocky outcrops in the arid Namaqualand region, surviving on very little seasonal rainfall. Its ephemeral pink flowers are characteristic of the genus.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Anacampserotaceae |
| Genus | Anacampseros |
| Growth Habit | Dwarf succulent with slightly erect habit, 2–6 cm tall, small rosette |
| Conservation Status | Data Deficient (DD) — Northern Cape endemic with scarce available data |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.0 |
| Type | Sandy or gravelly, very well-drained |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Elliptic to lanceolate, fleshy, green to grey-green, 6–15 mm, with moderately long white axillary hairs in the leaf axils.
ecoEphemeral, pink to pink-magenta, 5 petals, 10–18 mm in diameter, opening 2–4 h on a sunny afternoon on peduncles 4–9 cm.
ecoShort stem but more visible than in other species of the genus; may show an incipient caudex in mature specimens.
ecoFibrous, shallow to semi-deep penetration, adapted to well-drained quartzitic soils.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy or gravelly, very well-drained
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow on the surface of fine mineral substrate without covering the seed.
- 2 Keep at 20–25 °C under translucent cover with high ambient humidity.
- 3 Progressively ventilate after germination; transplant at 3–5 months.
Use unglazed terracotta pots to favour lateral transpiration.
Winter watering — main cause of death.
Every 3–4 years
Once in spring at very low dose with cactus fertilizer
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Generally non-toxic to humans; limited data for pets
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Plant Health
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"The specific epithet 'alta' is relative to the genus: at 2–6 cm tall it remains a tiny plant, but stands out among its more prostrate congeners. A species with scarce representation in collections outside South Africa."
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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.