Brachystelma rubellum Schltr.
Reddish Brachystelma
South African grassland geophyte with striking reddish-orange to reddish flowers (rubellum = reddish in Latin), relatively uncommon in cultivation but well-documented at the Rhenosterpoort Private Nature Reserve in Gauteng. It is one of the few Brachystelma with warm and showy floral colouration.
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© SAplants, CC BY-SA 4.0
CC BY-SA 4.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Brachystelma |
| Growth Habit | Seasonal herbaceous geophyte; annual stems 20–40 cm; globose tuber 4–9 cm |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern (LC) |
| pH Target | 5.5–7.0 |
| Type | Loamy-sandy, well-drained |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Loamy-sandy, well-drained
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
P
O
Every 4–5 years
Quarter-strength mineral fertilizer once a month in summer
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Probable glycoside toxicity from Asclepiadoideae; not documented for medicinal use
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Plant Health
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"SAplants' photographs (2009) at Rhenosterpoort constitute one of the few public photographic records of the species in its natural habitat. The reddish flower colouration is diagnostic and clearly distinguishes it from most dark-coloured Brachystelma."
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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.