Anacampseros densifolia Dinter ex Poelln.
Dense-leaved anacampseros
Anacampseros densifolia is a Namibian species described by Dinter ex Poellnitz, notable for its especially dense leaf packing that gives the plant an even more compact appearance than other congeners. This foliar density may be an adaptation to minimise water loss in the arid Namibian habitat. Like all Anacampseros, it produces ephemeral pink flowers that briefly open during sunny afternoons.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Anacampserotaceae |
| Genus | Anacampseros |
| Growth Habit | Dwarf succulent with very compact and dense rosette, 1–4 cm in diameter |
| Conservation Status | Data Deficient (DD) — restricted-range endemic in Namibia |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.0 |
| Type | Sandy or gravelly, very well-drained |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Very small, ovate, fleshy, grey-green, 3–8 mm, densely packed into a tight rosette; short white axillary hairs present.
ecoEphemeral, pink, 5 petals, 8–12 mm in diameter, opening 2–3 h on a sunny afternoon; short peduncles of 2–5 cm.
ecoStem practically absent; the rosette is nearly sessile, arising directly from the thickened root.
ecoThick and fleshy roots at the base (semi-root-caudex), typical of extreme Namibian aridity.
ecochevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy or gravelly, very well-drained
groups Beneficial Associations
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow on very fine moist mineral substrate without covering the seeds.
- 2 Constant temperature of 22–26 °C; plastic or glass cover.
- 3 Gradual ventilation after germination; avoid overwatering in seedlings.
Species for advanced collectors; very sensitive to excess water.
Watering at any time when temperature is below 15 °C.
Every 4–5 years; minimal root intervention
Once a year in spring, at 10% of the recommended cactus dose
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Generally non-toxic to humans; limited data for pets
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Plant Health
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
"The dense leaf packing of A. densifolia effectively reduces the surface area exposed to sun and wind, decreasing water loss through transpiration. In cultivation with less light, this compactness is lost, and leaves space out abnormally."
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Scientific Integrity
🟢 HighVote to help validate this record
Sources
Loading…
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.