Bergeranthus caninus (Haw.) Schwantes
Dog-toothed bergeranthus
Bergeranthus caninus is one of the oldest species in the genus taxonomically, originally described by Haworth before being transferred to Bergeranthus by Schwantes. Its epithet 'caninus' (canine in Latin) refers to the leaf shape reminiscent of dog teeth: triangular, pointed and moderately toothed along the margins. It is endemic to the South African Eastern Cape and produces typical diurnal yellow flowers.
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© Krzysztof Golik (Tournasol7), CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
CC BY-SA 4.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Bergeranthus |
| Growth Habit | Caespitose perennial succulent; rosettes of triangular leaves with pronounced apex and slightly toothed margins. Diurnal flowering. Moderately caespitose habit. |
| Conservation Status | Data deficient (DD); endemic to the Eastern Cape. Few botanical collections hold living material of this species. |
| pH Target | 6.5–7.5 |
| Type | Sandy-gravelly, very well-drained |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Triangular, fleshy, 3–6 cm long, dark green. Markedly acute apex and slightly denticulate margins (characteristic of the name 'caninus'). Slightly rough surface.
ecoYellow, diurnal, 2.5–3.5 cm in diameter with numerous linear petals. Flowering in summer-autumn.
ecoModerately extensive fibrous root system. Adapts well to rocky and stony substrates of the Eastern Cape.
ecoCaespitose clump 5–13 cm tall. Leaves with 'canine' apex visually distinguish it from other genus species.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy-gravelly, very well-drained
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Divide in spring separating rosettes with roots
- 2 Callous for 1–2 days in shade
- 3 Plant in mineral substrate and water after one week
- 1 Sow on fine sand without covering in spring
- 2 Keep moist at 20–24 °C
- 3 Transplant when 2–3 cm tall
C
Overwatering in winter
Every 2–3 years in spring
Very diluted mineral fertilizer once in spring.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Non-toxic
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Plant Health
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"B. caninus is one of the few species in the genus with a taxonomic history predating the creation of Bergeranthus by Schwantes (1926). Its original description by Haworth as Mesembryanthemum caninum dates to the 19th century, making it one of the Bergeranthus with the longest nomenclatural history."
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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.