Care of the succulent plant Fenestraria rhopalophylla or Babies toes |
The genus Fenestraria, family Aizoaceae, includes a single species of succulent plant native to southern Africa: Fenestraria rhopalophylla. Common names: Window plant, Babies toes. This species is native to Southern Africa. They are curious succulent plants that reach 5 cm (1.96") in height. They have clove-shaped leaves, light green in color with a transparent apex that does not have chlorophyll. It produces white flowers 3 cm (1.18") in diameter. They bloom in summer and early fall. Babies toes is used as indoor plants in small pots or on balconies and terraces in regions with a Mediterranean climate. Fenestraria rhopalophylla needs full sun exposure; if it doesn't get enough light it dies. A period of rest is recommended in winter with temperatures between 8-14 ºC (46-57 ºF). The soil can be a mixture, in equal parts, of coarse siliceous sand and compost soil. It's important to place a layer of gravel on the surface of the substrate. Water very moderately in summer, sparingly in spring and do not water the rest of the year. Window plant does not need pruning or fertilizers. The worst enemy of Fenestraria rhopalophylla is the excess of humidity that causes the rapid rot of the plant. Babies toes propagates by division taking great care in handling because it breaks easily; do this process in summer placing the suckers in dry sand so that they take root in the shade. |
Images of the succulent plant Fenestraria rhopalophylla or Babies toes |