Huernia Levyi
Family
Apocynaceae
Origin
Zimbabwe
Description
Huernia levyi forms fleshy small clumps with greyish green stems branching near the base. The stems nearly erect 4 angled. The flower is instantly recognizable and cannot be mistaken for that of any other species. It is strikingly elongated 8up to 4 cm long, 5 lobed with rough exteriors, cream to yellow coloured, and heavily speckled with burgundy. The lobes are short and flared outwards. The stems are nearly erect, 4-5 angled, finger-like about 7 cm long and armed with prominent teeth.
Environment
shrubs or other plants. Too much sun causes stems to develop protective reddish or purple pigmentation and can actually scald the stems. Too little light leads to weak, thin growth with decreased flower production.These plants grow best between 10 and 27 C. Protect them from freezing weather..
Huernias require a potting mix with excellent drainage. A succulent plant mix of 50 percent perlite, 25 percent vermicompost and 25 percent sand helps prevent rotting and overwatering. Roots experience die back in cool-season dormancy, so plants grow best in shallow containers that allow the soil to dry out quickly. Using clay pots further helps soil from staying too wet. An underlayment of coarse gravel below the soil mix also improves drainage. In climates with damp cool summers, a layer of gravel between the plant and the soil mix also helps prevent the stems from staying too moist. Outdoor plantings do well in raised beds.
Landscape Use
Suitable for Container, Rock Garden & Xeriscaping
