Rushworth's Little Pickles
othonna capensis
Also known as: ["Little Pickles","Rushworth's Little Pickles"]
Overview
A small, succulent plant native to South Africa, known for its cylindrical, pickle-like leaves and daisy-like yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Othonna |
| Botanical Name: | Othonna capensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright, direct light or outdoor rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; place indoors near a south-facing window if outdoors is too intense.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid low-light conditions.
Watering
every 10–14 days, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty soil mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy, clay-based soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frost but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; leaf cuttings can also work but are slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in dry soil.
- Water lightly after planting.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light; keep soil lightly moist.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; use a humidifier if needed; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node; remove any yellowing or dead growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead growth; shape the plant; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; use a cactus-specific mix for best results.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil dries quickly; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl or scorch; growth may slow if not enough water is provided.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good airflow.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Othonna capensis may experience mild gastrointestinal issues. The roots and stems are the toxic components, but the plant poses a low risk to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Othonna capensis by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The roots and stems are the most toxic parts, but the plant is not considered highly dangerous to dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOthonna capensis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's roots and stems are the primary toxic parts, though the effects are generally not severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Othonna capensis?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially during winter.
Q: Does Othonna capensis flower indoors?
A: Yes, it can produce yellow daisy-like flowers indoors if given sufficient sunlight.
Q: Is Othonna capensis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 10–14 days, allowing s |
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