Antimima turneriana (L.Bolus) H.E.K.Hartmann
Turner's antimima
Antimima turneriana is a succulent shrublet from the Namaqualand, Springbok area, in the Northern Cape of South Africa. It was described by L. Bolus and honours a botanical collector of the region. It grows in the characteristic vygie (mesemb) fields of Namaqualand, including the Knersvlakte area, famous for its spectacular spring flowering displays. Forms low mats of woody stems with triquetrous succulent leaves, producing white to pink flowers typical of the genus.
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© Nick Helme / Wikimedia Commons
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Antimima |
| Growth Habit | Low clump-forming shrublet, woody stems, highly branched |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern — endemic to Namaqualand and Knersvlakte |
| pH Target | 6.5–7.5 |
| Type | Dolomitic sandy, very well-drained |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Triquetrous, 1–2 cm, glaucous blue-green, with the lower surface carinate. Briefly connate at the base.
ecoWhite to pink, 1.5–2.5 cm diameter, with numerous linear petals. Diurnal. Flowers in spring (July–September in the southern hemisphere).
ecoWoody, prostrate to erect, up to 12 cm tall, with pale grey bark on mature branches.
ecoFibrous and shallow; adapted to dolomite and quartzite soils of Knersvlakte.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Dolomitic sandy, very well-drained
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Select current-year shoots, 3–5 cm.
- 2 Callous for 3–4 days before planting.
- 3 Quartz sand or very draining substrate.
- 4 Water minimally until new growth is visible.
- 1 Sow on fine moist mineral substrate.
- 2 Optimal germination temperature: 15–18 °C.
- 3 Bright indirect light during germination.
- 4 Transplant after 10–12 weeks.
A dolomitic component in the substrate notably improves plant vigour.
Using neutral substrate without a dolomitic component.
Every 3 years
Once at the start of autumn, very low dose
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No toxicity reported
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Plant Health
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"The species honours a botanical collector active in Namaqualand in the early 20th century. The Knersvlakte is one of the world's most important biodiversity hotspots for mesembs, with up to 70 Aizoaceae species coexisting in small areas. Antimima turneriana is one of the representative species of this unique ecosystem."
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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.