Cotyledon spuria, Liveforever
adromischus trigynus
Also known as: ["Cotyledon spuria","Liveforever"]
Overview
A small succulent plant with fleshy, triangular leaves and small, star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Saxifragales |
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Genus: | Adromischus |
| Botanical Name: | Adromischus trigynus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot with bright light or outdoor in a sheltered, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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 once a year or when dead leaves accumulate.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing unsightly or dead parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to direct sun to avoid scorching; protect from intense afternoon sun; adjust light exposure based on indoor/outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
bright, indirect light or partial sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid prolonged direct sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; water less in winter; avoid wetting leaves.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or gritty potting mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy garden soil; use a mix designed for succulents.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem or leaf cuttings; leaf cuttings are simpler and more common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Select healthy leaf or stem.
- Let cut end dry for a day.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain moderate humidity around cuttings.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting hormone powder is recommended.
Timeline
Leaf cuttings may root in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callous before planting; use a plastic bag to maintain humidity; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; trim leggy stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead leaves; sterilize tools; prune carefully; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh cactus mix; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly 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 deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
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 or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or discoloration; stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil dries fully between waterings; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may drop leaves in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently if in a hot environment.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
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 may experience mild gastrointestinal distress if they ingest parts of Adromischus trigynus. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Adromischus trigynus may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAdromischus trigynus contains mild irritants that can cause gastrointestinal discomfort upon ingestion. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be unpleasant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Adromischus trigynus?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Q: Does Adromischus trigynus require full sun?
A: It thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some direct sun.
Q: Is Adromischus trigynus toxic to pets?
A: There is no confirmed information on its toxicity to pets; it is best to keep it out of reach.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Crassulaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | bright, indirect light or part |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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