Adromischus marianae f. hallii - The Silver Dollar Succulent

Adromischus marianae f. hallii is a diminutive succulent native to arid regions of South Africa, particularly in the Northern and Western Cape provinces. It grows among quartzite or granite outcrops in well-drained rocky soils, where it endures strong sunlight and large diurnal temperature shifts. This form is noted for its compact habit and distinctive, rough-textured leaves, which may appear grey, green, or tinged with purple depending on light exposure and environmental stress.

Distinctive features:

• Thick, irregularly shaped leaves with a tuberculate or warty surface
• Leaf colour varies from pale grey-green to deep purple under stress
• Slow, compact growth with tight leaf clustering
• Inflorescence is slender and carries small tubular flowers, greenish-white to pale pink
• Commonly grows in quartz fields and rocky crevices in arid habitats

Care Tips:

• Light: Requires bright light or full sun for best form and colour
• Water: Water sparingly; allow soil to dry completely between watering
• Humidity: Thrives in dry air; excessive humidity can lead to rot
• Media: Use a mineral-based, well-draining mix with coarse sand or pumice
• Temperature: Protect from frost; tolerates down to 5 °C if kept dry
• Fertiliser: Apply diluted fertiliser during the warmer growing months
• Repotting: Infrequent; only when the container becomes too small or soil degrades

Additional Notes

• Leaf cuttings may be slow to root but are a reliable method of propagation
• Colour intensity increases with greater sun exposure and drought stress
• Often remains solitary or slowly forms small clusters