Lampranthus Ceriseus

Description

Lampranthus Ceriseus is a low-growing succulent plant that belongs to the Aizoaceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly grown for its attractive bright pink flowers. This plant is known for its ability to tolerate drought and high temperatures, making it an ideal choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Caryophyllales
Family	Aizoaceae
Genus	Lampranthus

Appearance

Lampranthus Ceriseus grows up to 1 foot tall and spreads up to 2 feet wide. Its leaves are fleshy, green, and cylindrical in shape, and grow up to 2 inches long. The plant produces bright pink flowers that are up to 2 inches in diameter and bloom in the summer. The flowers have a papery texture and are made up of numerous petals that radiate from a central disk.

Care Guide

• Water: Lampranthus Ceriseus is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering. Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. A cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal.
• Sunlight: Lampranthus Ceriseus thrives in full sun to partial shade. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day for best growth.
• Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lampranthus Ceriseus is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may occasionally be affected by mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases, so it is important to avoid overwatering the plant.

Habitat

Lampranthus Ceriseus is native to South Africa and is found in rocky areas and along coastal cliffs. It grows best in warm, dry climates and is well-suited to desert landscapes.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Lampranthus Ceriseus tolerate frost?

A: No, the plant is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.

Q: How often should I fertilize Lampranthus Ceriseus?

A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.

Q: Can I grow Lampranthus Ceriseus indoors?

A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a sunny location or under grow lights.

Q: How often should I water Lampranthus Ceriseus?

A: Water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. This may be once every 2-3 weeks depending on the climate and growing conditions.

Related Plants

• Lampranthus Aureus
• Lampranthus Blandus
• Lampranthus Multiradiatus
• Lampranthus Tenuifolius

References

• “Lampranthus Ceriseus.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, 2021, http://pza.sanbi.org/lampranthus-ceriseus.
• “Lampranthus Ceriseus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=274260.
• “Lampranthus Ceriseus.” World of Succulents, 2021, https://worldofsucculents.com/lampranthus-ceriseus.