Anacampseros lanigera Burch.
Woolly anacampseros
Anacampseros lanigera, described by Burchell, is known as the 'woolly anacampseros' for its abundant covering of long white axillary hairs that densely cover the rosette, giving it a characteristic cotton-like appearance. It is native to the South African Karoo, one of the country's most arid regions. It is one of the largest species in the genus, capable of forming rosettes up to 8 cm. Its ephemeral pink flowers emerge on long peduncles.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Anacampserotaceae |
| Genus | Anacampseros |
| Growth Habit | Rosette succulent, one of the largest in the genus, up to 8 cm in diameter, with woolly appearance |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) — species relatively well distributed in the Karoo |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.0 |
| Type | Sandy or gravelly, very well-drained |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Ovate to elliptic, fleshy, grey-green, 8–20 mm, completely enveloped in long woolly white axillary hairs that partially conceal the leaf.
ecoEphemeral, pink to deep pink, 5 petals, 12–20 mm in diameter, the largest in the genus; robust peduncles of 6–12 cm.
ecoShort stem with well-developed basal caudex in multi-year specimens; more pronounced than in most congeners.
ecoThick and fleshy roots at the base; combination of shallow fibrous roots and deep storage roots.
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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 moist mineral substrate shallowly.
- 2 Keep at 18–24 °C with moist cover; this species tolerates slightly lower temperatures.
- 3 Remove cover progressively; transplant at 3–4 months.
Relatively robust species, good for introducing collectors to the genus.
Winter watering — fatal despite its greater robustness.
Every 3–4 years
Once in spring with cactus fertilizer at 25%
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Generally non-toxic to humans; limited data for pets
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Plant Health
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"The abundant woolly covering of A. lanigera is the densest in the genus and acts as a thermal insulator and moisture trap for fog and dew, allowing the plant to subsist in the Karoo with rainfall below 150 mm per year. At higher altitudes and greater diurnal-nocturnal temperature differences, the density of the hairs is greater."
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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.