Adromischus filicaulis - Red Spotted Form

Adromischus filicaulis – Red Spotted Form is a selected form of the South African and Namibian species Adromischus filicaulis, grown for its elongated succulent leaves and particularly strong red to burgundy markings. The foliage can vary considerably with season and growing conditions, producing contrasting combinations of green, grey-green, red and deep burgundy.

Red-Spotted Foliage

The fleshy leaves are elongated and generally oblanceolate to elliptic, narrowing towards both the base and tip. They can range from somewhat flattened to almost cylindrical, with individual leaves varying noticeably in length, thickness and shape as the plant develops.

The darker markings are especially prominent in this form. Leaves may develop scattered red spots, larger irregular blotches or extensive burgundy pigmentation contrasting with areas of pale grey-green. Stronger light and seasonal conditions can intensify the red colouring, while new growth may initially emerge considerably greener.

Growth & Flowers

Adromischus filicaulis is naturally variable and develops branching succulent stems that may become spreading or somewhat prostrate as plants mature. Young cultivated plants generally remain compact, gradually producing additional branches and growing points.

Established plants can produce slender upright flower stems bearing small tubular flowers. The flowers are yellowish-green towards the base, with pale lobes that may develop pink to mauve colouring.

A Southern African Species

Adromischus filicaulis is an accepted botanical species native to Namibia and South Africa's Cape Provinces, where it occurs in dry rocky habitats and shrubland. Its natural range extends across a considerable area of the arid and semi-arid western parts of southern Africa.

The species is highly variable in foliage shape and markings, with both spotted and relatively unspotted plants occurring naturally. “Red Spotted Form” is a horticultural description used here to distinguish plants selected for the particularly strong reddish to burgundy markings seen in our stock.

Growing Adromischus filicaulis – Red Spotted Form

Grow in a free-draining succulent mix in a bright position with good airflow. Good light helps maintain compact growth and encourages stronger red and burgundy foliage colouring, although plants should be acclimatised gradually before exposure to intense direct sun.

Water thoroughly when required and allow the growing medium to dry appropriately between waterings. Avoid prolonged waterlogging, particularly during cooler conditions. The fleshy leaves store moisture well, allowing established plants to tolerate periods of dryness.

Please note before purchasing: Adromischus leaves can detach relatively easily when physically disturbed. Although plants are carefully selected and packed for shipping, please be aware that some leaf drop may occur during transit or unpacking and should be expected with these plants. Several detached leaves can occur without significantly affecting the plant and do not in themselves indicate that it is unhealthy.

In the wild, leaf detachment and subsequent rooting is a natural means of vegetative reproduction in Adromischus, helping the plants reproduce and persist in their natural habitat. If leaves become detached from your plant, simply lay the healthy leaves on the surface of a free-draining succulent mix in bright, protected light. New roots and shoots will often develop from the base of the leaf over the following weeks. Once roots and new growth begin to develop, gently nestle them into the growing medium and allow the new plant to establish.

Adromischus filicaulis – Red Spotted Form plants for sale shown in 70mm pots. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images. Colours, markings and leaf shape will vary naturally between plants and according to time of year and growing conditions.