Brachystelma tuberosum (Meerb.) R.Br. ex Sims
Tuberous Brachystelma
Type species of the genus Brachystelma, a globose-tuber geophyte with slender annual stems and small flowers in umbels, native to the Cape region of South Africa. It is one of the oldest described species in the genus, known since the late 18th century.
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© Michael Wolf, CC BY-SA 3.0
CC BY-SA 3.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Brachystelma |
| Growth Habit | Seasonal herbaceous geophyte; annual stems 10–25 cm; globose tuber 3–8 cm in diameter |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) |
| pH Target | 5.5–6.8 |
| Type | Sandy, porous, clay-free |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy, porous, clay-free
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
P
W
Every 3–5 years
Low-nitrogen mineral fertilizer, medium dilution, once a month in the active season
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Possibly toxic due to cardenolide glycosides; not documented for medicinal or food use
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Plant Health
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"Originally described as Stapelia tuberosa by Meerburgh in 1789 and transferred to Brachystelma by Robert Brown in 1810. The epithet tuberosum refers to its characteristic tuberous root."
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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.