Drosanthemum, Genus, spp., Multiple species,
- Genus
- Multiple species
Dewfigs
Overview
Drosanthemum, the dewfigs, is a genus of more than 100 succulent shrublets and groundcovers in the ice plant family (Aizoaceae), native to South Africa and Namibia. The common and scientific names refer to the leaf surface, which is densely covered in tiny glistening cells that sparkle like dew. Plants form spreading or trailing mounds 10-60 cm (4-24 in) high that can run more than 1 m (3 ft) wide on slender, often woody stems set with small cylindrical or club-shaped leaves. In spring the plants are smothered in many-petalled, daisy-like flowers 1-3 cm (0.4-1.2 in) across in shimmering pink, purple, magenta, orange, yellow, and white, which open in sun. Flowering is dense and showy but short, mostly over a few weeks in spring. The genus is adapted to dry, sunny, rocky habitats and stores water in its leaves to survive long dry spells. Most species are frost-tender and suited to mild, dry-summer climates, though a few tolerate light frost. Sharp drainage matters, as the succulent stems rot in cold, wet ground.
Native Range
Drosanthemum is native to the winter-rainfall and semi-arid regions of South Africa and Namibia, including the Cape, Karoo, and Namaqualand. The genus is restricted to southern Africa in the wild.Suggested Uses
Drosanthemum species are planted as fast groundcover on hot, dry banks, over walls, in rock and gravel gardens, and in coastal and xeriscape plantings. Trailing forms cascade from raised beds and containers. The spring flowers draw bees and other pollinators.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4" - 2'
Width/Spread2' - 3'
Bloom Information
The main flowering is in spring, when established plants can be almost hidden by bloom for two to four weeks. Flowers open in sun and close in dull weather or at night. Scattered later flowers may appear, but the heavy display is brief.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
pink, purple, magenta, orange, yellow, or whiteFoliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-12 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Water & Climate
Water Needs
Drought Tolerance
Drought tolerant when established
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plants grow in full sun on gritty, sharply drained soil at a pH of 6.0-7.5. Once established they tolerate heat, wind, and long drought, drawing on water held in the leaves. Cold, wet winter soil is the main cause of failure, leading to stem and root rot. Most species are hardy only to about USDA zone 9, with a few to zone 8. Light watering during the growing season supports flowering, but established plants need little care.Pruning
A light trim after flowering removes spent blooms and keeps the mounds compact. Older plants can grow bare at the centre and are renewed by cutting back or by replanting rooted stem pieces. Frost-damaged growth is removed in spring.Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 2 gallons
