Moraceae
Dorstenia hildebrandtii
Hildebrandt's Dorstenia
H
Not currently in the nursery
We can propagate most native species on request — get in touch to discuss timeline and quantity.
About
This unusual rhizomatous or tuberous succulent forms a fleshy, reddish-brown, swollen bulbous base (caudex) up to 5 cm in diameter. It produces simple or branched shoots that can reach 70 cm tall, crowned with spirally arranged, fleshy, green leaves that are typically oblong to linear in shape. Inflorescences are peculiar disc-shaped to funnel-shaped structures, often greenish to dark purple, with distinct appendages, appearing from late spring to autumn.
Where it works in Kilifi
Ideal for a Kilifi-coast garden in a dry garden, rockery, or as a specimen plant, especially when grown in containers. It thrives in well-draining, sandy, or rocky soil, preferring bright indirect light to partial sun, with the caudex kept shaded from intense direct sunlight.
Growing notes
It exhibits a slow to moderate growth rate, but growth can be enhanced with adequate water and warmth during the active season. Water regularly from spring to autumn, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings, but keep dry during winter dormancy to prevent rot. This plant is not frost-hardy and is very susceptible to rotting if kept too wet, particularly in cool conditions or during dormancy.
Sources
Researched with web grounding from: llifle.com, worldofsucculents.com, giromagicactusandsucculents.com, kew.org, seedsyndicate.net, livingdesertplants.co.za. Please verify with local knowledge before relying on these notes.