Adromischus subdistichus

Adromischus subdistichus, commonly known as book-stonecrop, is a dwarf South African succulent with rounded, flattened leaves arranged closely along short branching stems. The foliage is typically grey-green to brownish-green and can develop reddish to deep purplish colouring around the margins and younger growth.

Rounded Leaves & Contrasting Margins

The fleshy leaves are obovate to almost rounded, usually measuring approximately 15–20 mm long. They are generally unspotted and have a distinctive pale, firm margin extending around much of the leaf. Younger plants often arrange their leaves in two nearly opposite rows, a characteristic reflected in the species name subdistichus.

Foliage colour varies considerably with growing conditions. Plants may remain predominantly grey-green in milder conditions, while brighter light and periods of dryness can bring stronger brown, red and purplish tones to the leaves and margins.

Growth & Flowers

Adromischus subdistichus initially forms compact, sparsely branched clusters. In its natural cliff habitat, older stems can become spreading or pendulous, sometimes reaching around 20 cm long as they grow over ledges and through rock crevices.

During summer, established plants can produce slender flower stems bearing small tubular flowers. The corolla is greenish-yellow towards the base, with pink lobes towards the outer portion of the flower.

Eastern Klein Karoo Cliff Species

Adromischus subdistichus is an accepted botanical species endemic to South Africa. It occurs principally in the eastern Klein Karoo and adjoining areas, from around Prince Albert through mountainous country near Willowmore to the western end of the Baviaanskloof, where it grows on sheltered cliffs, rocky ledges and crevices.

Growing Adromischus subdistichus

Grow in a free-draining succulent mix in a bright position with good airflow. Bright filtered light or morning sun suits the species well, while stronger light can encourage the reddish and purplish foliage tones seen in well-coloured plants.

Water thoroughly when required and allow the growing medium to dry appropriately between waterings. Avoid prolonged waterlogging, particularly during cooler conditions. The fleshy leaves detach relatively easily and should be handled with some care.

Please note before purchasing: Leaves on this variety of Adromischus 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 this variety. 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

Adromischus subdistichus plants for sale shown in 70mm pots. You will receive same or similar plants as those shown in images 2 onward. First image for display only. Colours and growth form will vary naturally between plants and according to time of year and growing conditions.