Sand Rose
Anacampseros rufescens is a delightful succulent that combines decorative appeal with ease of care. Its ability to thrive in less-than-ideal conditions and its beautiful, colorful foliage make it a standout addition to any succulent collection or garden setting.
Anacampseros rufescens, commonly known as the Sand Rose, is a charming and decorative succulent that’s popular among enthusiasts for its compact form and colorful foliage. This plant combines beauty with resilience, making it a favored choice for both novice gardeners and seasoned collectors.
The Sand Rose is a small, slow-growing succulent with rosettes of thick, fleshy leaves that are green to dark purple in color. The leaves are often covered with fine hairs, giving them a slightly fuzzy appearance. This succulent often grows in dense clusters, forming mats over time.
Native: This plant is native to South Africa, where it thrives in arid conditions, typically found in rocky outcroppings and dry, stony soils. It used to belong to the Portulacaceae family, commonly known as the purslane family, along with Portulaca oleracea (Purslane) and Portulaca grandiflora (Moss Rose). However it was moved to the Anacampserotaceae family in 2010.
Plant Type and Habit: Sand Rose is a perennial succulent that forms mat-like clusters. It has a slow, spreading growth habit, which allows it to cover small areas with its beautiful foliage.
Size: It typically reaches about 3 inches in height (7 cm) and can spread outwards to about 8 inches (20 cm) as it matures.
Flowers: The mildly fragrant flowers of Sand Rose are quite striking, about 1 inch across (2.5 cm). Single or up to 3-4 together, they are typically pink or purple-red and star-shaped, blooming atop slender, leafless stalks that rise above the foliage. The blooming period for this succulent is mainly in late spring, when the blooms open for a short period in the afternoon and close every night. The plant produces small, capsule-like fruits that contain tiny seeds, which can be used for propagation.
Foliage: The leaves, up to 70 per rosette, are small, cylindrical, densely packed and spirally arranged. Their color can vary from dark olive green to reddish purple if exposed to the sun or under stress conditions. Their undersides are usually dark purple.
Hardiness: The Sand Rose is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. It can withstand temperatures as low as 40°F (5°C) for short periods, but it is best to protect it from frost to prevent damage.
Uses: Due to its compact size and attractive appearance, it’s commonly used in rock gardens, container gardens, and as a ground cover in suitable climates. It’s also a popular choice for terrariums and dish gardens.
Toxicity: Anacampseros rufescens is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. This makes it a safe choice for households with children and pets, as there are no reported adverse effects from handling or accidental ingestion of this plant.
Drought: Like many succulents, the Sand Rose is extremely drought-tolerant. It can survive long periods without water, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping and low-water garden designs.
Invasiveness: This plant is not considered invasive. It grows slowly and is easily contained within garden settings or pots.
Benefits: The Sand Rose is highly valued for its ornamental qualities. It enhances the aesthetic of any space it occupies, and its low maintenance requirements make it suitable for gardens where water conservation is a priority.
Growing and caring for the Sand Rose can be straightforward with the right conditions. Here are essential tips to ensure a healthy plant:
Light: Prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. Direct sunlight can enhance the leaf colors, but in very hot climates, it should be protected from the harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching.
Soil: Requires well-draining soil. A cactus or succulent mix is perfect as it provides the right balance of airiness and moisture retention. If grown in a container, ensure the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to completely dry out between waterings. In the growing season (spring and summer), water once every 1-2 weeks, depending on the humidity and temperature. Reduce watering frequency during the dormant winter months to prevent root rot.
Temperature: Thrives in warm environments with temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). It is not frost-tolerant and should be brought indoors or protected when the temperature drops below 50°F (10°C).
Humidity: Tolerates average indoor humidity levels but will appreciate occasional misting in very dry conditions.
Fertilizer: Feed with a diluted low-nitrogen, balanced fertilizer designed for succulents during the growing season, about once a month. Avoid fertilizing during the winter dormant period.
Pruning: Remove dead or dying leaves to keep the plant healthy and prevent pest infestations.
Propagation: Easily propagated by seed or leaf cuttings. Allow any cut surface to callous over for a few days before planting in well-draining soil.
Pests and Diseases: Watch for common succulent pests like aphids, spider mites, or mealybugs. Treat infestations with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Be vigilant against fungal diseases, especially in humid conditions.
Hardiness |
9 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Houseplants, Cactus & Succulents |
Plant Family | Anacampserotaceae |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 3" (8cm) |
Spread | 4" - 8" (10cm - 20cm) |
Spacing | 4" - 8" (10cm - 20cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Low |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Drought |
Garden Uses | Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Mediterranean Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden |
Hardiness |
9 - 11 |
---|---|
Plant Type | Houseplants, Cactus & Succulents |
Plant Family | Anacampserotaceae |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 3" (8cm) |
Spread | 4" - 8" (10cm - 20cm) |
Spacing | 4" - 8" (10cm - 20cm) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Low |
Soil Type | Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Showy, Evergreen |
Tolerance | Drought |
Garden Uses | Patio And Containers |
Garden Styles | Mediterranean Garden, Gravel and Rock Garden |
How many Anacampseros rufescens (Sand Rose) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
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Anacampseros rufescens (Sand Rose) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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