Adromischus marianae var. tanqua

The Rugged Sculptural Succulent

Adromischus marianae var. tanqua is a uniquely textured succulent native to South Africa, prized for its rugged, warty leaves and slow-growing nature. This compact, sculptural plant thrives in arid conditions and is a striking addition to any succulent collection.

Distinctive Features:

• Thick, knobbly, warty leaves that can range in colour from green to deep reddish-brown.
• Compact, slow-growing habit, making it ideal for small pots and rock gardens.
• Produces delicate, tubular flowers on slender stalks in late spring to summer.
• Adapted to survive in dry conditions with minimal water.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light to full sun. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while insufficient light may lead to leggy growth.
• Water: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
• Humidity: Thrives in dry conditions. Avoid excess humidity, as it may encourage rot.
• Media: Requires well-draining, gritty soil. A mix of cactus soil with added perlite or pumice is ideal.
• Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures between 18–26°C but can tolerate cooler conditions down to 5°C if kept dry.
• Fertiliser: Feed lightly with a diluted cactus fertiliser during the growing season (spring and summer).
• Repotting: Repot only when necessary, as the plant is slow-growing and prefers to remain slightly root-bound.

Additional Notes:

• Avoid overwatering, as this is the most common cause of failure in cultivation.
• Propagation is best done via leaf cuttings, though patience is required as growth is slow.
• Its unusual texture and rugged appearance make it a fantastic subject for macro photography.
• Does well in containers, rockeries, or as part of a succulent arrangement.

Adromischus marianae var. tanqua is an extraordinary succulent that demands little but rewards with striking beauty. With proper care, this resilient plant can thrive for years, adding a sculptural element to any collection.