Cono's

I can't remember exactly when I saw my first Conophytum, or "Cono", but it was love at first sight!  They are wonderfully adapted, and interestingly shaped succulents that remind me of little candies.  I just HAD to add a few to my growing collection of Mesembs but they proved to be elusive.  I had never come across conos online or locally, until recently when I spotted two small potted Conos sitting demurely among other succulents at a C/S Society sale.  I snatched those babies up in a heartbeat!  I was hooked.

My assumption that cultural requirements of Conos was akin to that of Lithops, proved to be a bit off, but after a little research (see links below), I was set straight.  The seasonal phases of Conos are fascinating.  They are winter growers.  As summer approaches, growth slows and they prepare for domancy by developing a sheath, taking on a brownish, shriveled look.  An unsuspecting gardener may think their plants were dying!  With the onset of cooler temps of fall/winter, the sheaths break open to reveal new growth and brilliant color.  This is also bloom time!  Colorful little flowers pop up from the center of each plant.  They last for a few days, staying open when temps are warm and the sky is bright.  The cycle begins again as Conos fatten up and grow over winter, which is in perfect sync with the cool/rainy season in my area.  We are buddies now!

Here are photos of a few of my Conos.  I hope I labeled them correctly?!...

Conophytum minimum 'wittebergense'  Klipfontein'
in late spring

Same plant, in too much sun!

Summer dormancy

Fall ~ Sheaths breaking open.  Notice some plants have begun to divide.

Conophytum marnierianum 'Secret of Suzanne'

Conophytum loeschianum

Conophytum elisae

Conophytum obcordellum?

Conophytum blandum

Conophytum verrucosum

Conophytum uviforme

Conophytum hians (developing sheaths)

Conophytum minutum

Helpful Links:

Mastering the Art of Growing Mesembs by Steve Hammer

Conophytum Culture Sheet by "CultureSheet.Org"

Plant of the Month: Conophytum; by Bruce Brethauer for the Columbus Cactus Club

Best of the best

I have hundreds, maybe a thousand plants, and I can tell you at any time exactly what I have and where they are located in my garden.  Obsession at best!  Of my collection, there are a few that stand out because they are visually stunning and equally care free.  This list changes from time to time, but for now these are my Best of the Best...

Echeveria 'Pappy's Rose' crest

Aloe dorotheae

Echeveria agavoides 'Lipstick'

Agave attenuata

Conophytum obcordellum

Aloe vaombe

Cheiridopsis candidissima

30 year old Platycerium superbum.
The mounting board is 4' wide.