Apteranthes gussoneana J.C.Mikan ex Maire
Gussone's apteranthes
Apteranthes gussoneana is a central Mediterranean stapeliad distributed across Sicily, Malta, Tunisia, Libya, and Greece. Named in honour of botanist Giovanni Gussone (1787–1866). Taxonomically close to A. europaea, from which it differs mainly in geographic distribution and floral details. Historically documented in 19th-century botanical illustrations.
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© Auguste-Henri de Coincy, Ecloga plantarum Hispanicarum (1893), dominio público
Public Domain
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Apteranthes |
| Growth Habit | Perennial herbaceous succulent forming low clumps of angular succulent stems, similar to A. europaea. |
| Conservation Status | Data Deficient (DD) to Vulnerable (VU) depending on country; fragmented distribution on Mediterranean islands. |
| pH Target | 7.0–8.5 |
| Type | Rocky calcareous, arid, very well-drained. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Angular, 4-ribbed, grayish-green, similar to A. europaea, 10–25 cm.
ecoStar-shaped, 1.5–2.5 cm, brownish-yellow petals with darker transverse bands, carrion odor.
ecoSuperficial, fibrous; requires perfect drainage.
ecoPaired follicles with plumed seeds.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Rocky calcareous, arid, very well-drained.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
S
W
Every 3–4 years.
No fertilization or minimal in summer.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Mildly toxic; irritant latex.
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Plant Health
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"Taxon difficult to distinguish from A. europaea without detailed floral examination. The Coincy illustration (1893) is the best-known historical reference. Rare in collections."
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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.