Origin and Natural Habitat
A selected form of Adromischus marianae that does not occur in nature.
Plant Characteristics
‘Bryan Makin’ is an attractive cultivar of Adromischus marianae with dark purple patterns and frilly leaf edges.
Care Guide
Light
In nature, Adromischus generally grow at the base of large shrubs where they can receive enough light while still being somewhat protected from some of the sun’s harshness. They prefer morning and evening sun, but might be damaged by the heat during mid-day. In cultivation, they should therefore be kept under no more than 40% shade cloth. This encourages stronger colouration and a more compact growth form while preventing sun damage. If they are being kept outdoors, but not in a greenhouse, then full morning sun is suitable.
Soil
Adromischus are not fussy plants when it comes to soil mixes. They will survive in pretty much any mix that drains well. However, to make sure it thrives, plant your Adromischus in a well-drained organic medium. You can add some perlite or pumice to assist with drainage. Coco peat is also a good addition. These plants prefer a sandy mix as their roots are quite fibrous, and do not fare well in overly gritty mixes.
Water
In cultivation, Adromischus can be watered throughout the year. This plant should receive a thorough soaking of water every 7-10 days during the active growing seasons of autumn and spring, but only if the soil is mostly dry. Reduce watering somewhat in mid-summer and mid-winter. This genus can be quite sensitive to overwatering, and tends to suffer from leaf and root rot if the soil stays wet.
Pot size
Adromischus are dwarf succulents and will grow comfortably in a 10cm pot. Their root systems are fibrous, and this means that the plants are not too fussy about their pot size and depth. However, do not give them too large of a pot, as this will cause the pot to retain too much moisture.
Temperature
Adromischus‘ ideal temperature ranges between 15 – 25*C. This genus can tolerate 5 – 30*C. Due to their thick, fleshy leaves, Adromischus do not tolerate frost well. Make sure to cover your plants in frost netting or keep them indoors during the coldest parts of winter.
Humidity
Adromischus are sensitive to too high levels of humidity, particularly during winter and summer. Make sure that your growing space has plenty of airflow.
Fertilizing
Use a half-strength diluted general liquid fertilizer only during the growing season. Do not fertilize during spring and summer. Alternatively, a small amount of slow-release fertilizer will be sufficient.
Growing Season
Adromischus grow actively in autumn and spring, but their growth slows down in summer and winter.
In South Africa, their growing season is from September until November, and March until May.
Propagation
Adromischus are best propagated from seeds, leaf cuttings and stem cuttings.
Leaf propagation: Simply twist off a leaf as close as possible to the stem, let it dry for 3 days, then rest it on some soil. It will produce roots and eventually small plantlets will form.
Stem propagation: Using a sharp, clean knife, cut one of the stems of the Adromischus from the main stem. Let this dry for 10 days, then plant it.
Seed germination: Seeds should be sown in autumn. Plant them in a loamy mix in an airtight container. Once most of the seeds have germinated, remove the lid of the container to allow airflow. Gently mist the seedlings every few days so that the soil does not dry out.