Pleiospilos simulans (Marloth) N.E.Br.
Liver Quaggafig / Quagga Mesemb
Pleiospilos simulans, colloquially known as the "quagga mesemb," is a species endemic to southern South Africa considered locally extinct or effectively disappeared from its wild natural habitat. It forms flattened, mottled, grey-brown leaves that mimic shale fragments in the arid Cape regions. Its name "simulans" refers precisely to its ability to simulate the rocky environment.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Aizoaceae |
| Genus | Pleiospilos |
| Growth Habit | Very slow-growing acaulescent perennial succulent with flat, horizontal leaves; forms small clumps in cultivation over time. |
| Conservation Status | Considered locally extinct in the wild or critically endangered at its last known localities; maintained mainly in specialized collections and seed banks. SANBI lists it as a high conservation priority species. |
| pH Target | 6.0 – 7.0 |
| Type | Cape shale soils, extremely poor, with fine quartz particles and instantaneous drainage; virtually no organic matter. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Exceptionally flattened leaves compared to other Pleiospilos, with a laminar appearance and densely spotted surface featuring dark brown marks on a grey background. The upper face is nearly flat and can reach 10–12 cm in diameter in well-grown adult specimens.
ecoPractically non-existent visually; the meristem is buried and protected. In prolonged cultivation it may develop a small soft caudex below the substrate surface.
ecoBright yellow to orange flowers, 5–7 cm in diameter, fragrant and with a large number of visible stamens at the center. They emerge from the central groove and open only during peak sunlight hours.
ecoThick, branching roots adapted to stony soils; during extreme drought the plant can partially contract into the soil by drawing the roots downward.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Cape shale soils, extremely poor, with fine quartz particles and instantaneous drainage; virtually no organic matter.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Sow on the surface of fine, sandy mineral substrate that is lightly moist, without covering the seeds.
- 2 Maintain temperature of 18–25 °C with day/night fluctuation of 5–8 °C.
- 3 Cover with clear glass or plastic; ventilate daily to prevent fungal issues.
- 4 Germination in 2–4 weeks; gradually remove cover.
- 5 Transplant individually when seedlings are manageable (6–12 months).
- 1 Divide at the start of autumn when the plant has 3 or more well-developed heads.
- 2 Remove the plant, clean the roots, and separate heads with a sterilized knife.
- 3 Callus cut surfaces for 1–2 days in an airy spot.
- 4 Replant in very well-draining mineral substrate; do not water for one week.
Water only during active growth in autumn-winter; never water while old leaves are being absorbed by new ones.
Watering during summer semi-dormancy, causing rapid rot.
Every 3–4 years at the start of autumn. Use shallow terracotta pots with almost exclusively mineral substrate.
No fertilization, or very sporadic (once per active season) with heavily diluted cactus fertilizer.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No documented toxicity; like all Pleiospilos, considered low toxic risk.
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"The epithet "simulans" reflects what 19th-century botanists found most striking: its ability to simulate shale substrate with such fidelity that only flowering specimens were detectable to the naked eye in the field. Wild extinction is attributed mainly to massive illegal collection in the second half of the 20th century combined with habitat degradation through intensive grazing."
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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.