Sunrise Plant
anacampseros telephiastrum
Also known as: ["Sunrise Plant","Cushion Plant"]
Overview
A small succulent with fleshy, rosette-forming leaves that display vibrant colors, especially in bright light.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Anacampserotaceae |
| Genus: | Anacampseros |
| Botanical Name: | Anacampseros telephiastrum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, airy location or outdoor in sheltered, sunny spot
- 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: Succulent/cactus mix with added perlite or coarse sand for drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light 4–6 hours/day; can tolerate direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light; tolerates some direct morning sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy cactus mix with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; topdress with gravel for aesthetics.
Temperature
Ideal range 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Let callus form.
- Plant in medium.
- Water lightly.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid (50–60% RH), bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and succulent/cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus for 1–2 days; use bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch or snip stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth and spent leaves to maintain compact shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; use fresh, well-draining soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water 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 even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve aeration and drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration (yellowing or browning) due to stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf damage, and may lead to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, dehydration, and stunted growth due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; cease in dormant season.
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
Non-toxicAnacampseros telephiastrum is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAnacampseros telephiastrum is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines when ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAnacampseros telephiastrum is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is generally considered safe for handling and consumption in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Anacampseros telephiastrum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot.
Q: Does this plant need direct sunlight?
A: Yes, it thrives in bright, direct sunlight, which enhances its vibrant leaf colors.
Q: Can I propagate this plant?
A: Yes, it can be propagated by leaf or stem cuttings, though it may take some time to root.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Anacampserotaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light; tolera |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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