Emm's Plant House

Fenestraria Rhopalophylla 'Baby Toes' 8.5cm H10cm

£8.00 GBP

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Pot Size 8.5cm H10cm

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Fenestraria rhopalophylla, commonly known as the "Baby Toes" succulent, is a unique and striking plant native to the coastal regions of South Africa. This small, low-growing succulent gets its name from its unusual, toe-shaped leaves that are fleshy and translucent at the tips. The plant forms clumps of these curious, finger-like structures that protrude from the soil, often with a soft, green color that turns pale or yellow under bright sunlight. Fenestraria is perfect for adding a quirky, drought-tolerant element to rock gardens, containers, or succulent arrangements.

Full Botanical Name: Fenestraria rhopalophylla
Common Names: Baby Toes, Window Plant
Country and/or Region of Origin: Native to the coastal regions of South Africa
Growing Conditions in Native Habitat: Grows in dry, sandy soils in coastal areas, where it thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, often found in rocky outcrops or coastal dunes.

Care Guide

Care Guide:

Light: Prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause the plant to burn. A spot with full sun or near a sunny window is ideal for encouraging strong growth and vibrant coloration.

Ideal Room: Ideal for sunny indoor spaces like living rooms, offices, or patios. It works well in containers, hanging baskets, or as part of succulent arrangements. It's also perfect for a bright windowsill or rock garden.

Feeding: Fertilize sparingly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer. Too much fertilizer can lead to weak growth, so it's best to fertilize every 6-8 weeks. Reduce feeding in the fall and winter months when growth slows.

Humidity: Prefers low humidity, typical of its native coastal environment. It will thrive in average household humidity and does not require additional moisture in the air.

Ideal Temperature: Best kept between 65°F and 75°F (18°C to 24°C). Protect from temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as it is sensitive to frost and cold drafts.

Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings. As a drought-tolerant succulent, it is more tolerant of underwatering than overwatering. Ensure the pot has good drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom and causing root rot.

Pet/Child Safe: Non-toxic to pets and children, making it a safe plant for homes with animals and young children.

Soil Type: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. A mix designed for cacti ensures the soil drains quickly and prevents water from sitting around the roots.

Propagation: Propagate by leaf or stem cuttings. Simply take a healthy cutting, let the cut end callous over for a few days, and plant it in dry, well-draining soil to root. Fenestraria can also propagate by offsets, which can be separated and replanted.

Eventual Height and Spread: Typically grows up to 4-6 inches (10-15 cm) in height with a spread of about 6-8 inches (15-20 cm). It forms a dense clump of small, finger-like leaves, making it perfect for rock gardens or container plantings.

Growth Rate: Slow-growing. It produces new growth gradually, and the plant will thrive with minimal care, making it a low-maintenance option for succulent collectors.

Pests and Treatment: Generally pest-resistant, but may occasionally attract mealybugs or aphids. Treat infestations with neem oil or insecticidal soap to maintain the plant’s health.

Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is just slightly larger than the current one and ensure it has good drainage to promote healthy root growth.

Pruning: Prune dead or damaged leaves regularly to maintain a clean and tidy appearance. Fenestraria does not require much pruning but can be trimmed if it becomes leggy or overcrowded.

Air Purification: Like many succulents, Fenestraria rhopalophylla helps improve indoor air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making it a beneficial addition to your home or office.

Folklore: Fenestraria species are often associated with resilience and adaptability due to their ability to thrive in harsh, arid environments. They are sometimes believed to bring endurance and patience to those who care for them.

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