Brachystelma barberiae Harv. ex Hook.f.
Barber's Brachystelma
South African bulbous geophyte in the family Apocynaceae, known for its large flattened subterranean tuber and showy star-shaped flowers in dark red to brown with partially fused petals. It is one of the most cultivated species in the genus, flowering before the leaves emerge, rising directly from the ground at the start of the wet season.
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© Stan Shebs, CC BY-SA 3.0
CC BY-SA 3.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Brachystelma |
| Growth Habit | Seasonal herbaceous geophyte; annual erect to decumbent stems up to 30 cm; flattened discoid tuber up to 20 cm in diameter |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) |
| pH Target | 5.5–7.0 |
| Type | Sandy, sandy-loam, fast-draining |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy, sandy-loam, fast-draining
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
P
O
Every 3–4 years or when the tuber overfills the pot
Diluted low-nitrogen fertilizer once a month during the growing season
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Potentially toxic if ingested; contains cardenolide glycosides typical of the subfamily Asclepiadoideae
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Plant Health
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"Flowers in September–November (southern hemisphere) before leaves emerge; flowers emit a rotting-flesh odour to attract fly pollinators (myiophily). The epithet honours Mary E. Barber, a 19th-century South African botanist."
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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.