Antimima VENTRICOSA

Antimima VENTRICOSA - Ventricose antimima, Antimima ventricosa.

"Living Stones" seed series.

The genus Antimima of the ice plant family (Aizoaceae) numbers about one hundred species. They were formerly assigned to the genus Ruschia, but were later separated into an independent genus. Antimimas grow in South Africa, in various regions of the Cape Province. Each species has a separate, strictly localized distribution range. In these regions, precipitation falls only in winter, approximately 50-70 mm (2.0-2.8 in) per year, and summer is very hot (up to 40 °C (104 °F)) and dry. Therefore, local plants have adapted to these harsh conditions, which determined their appearance.

These are dwarf plants with trailing or very short stems. Some species resemble "living stones" and form a pair of thick, almost globose leaves. Many species are cultivated in indoor culture. The appearance of small plants of the genus Antimima in pots can resemble a miniature tree grown using bonsai techniques.

The leaves are succulent, fleshy, often with sparse teeth along the margins. They reflect sunlight well, which helps reduce the plant's overall temperature in hot weather. The flowers of Antimima are fairly large, bright, with a silky sheen, red, purple, pink, violet, or white.

Antimima ventricosa is a very small, succulent, groundcover shrub forming a compact cushion with tightly compressed leaves and small charming flowers with a light center. The leaves are gray-green, fleshy, and the flowers are pink or lilac.

Seeds are sown superficially, moistened with a spray bottle, covered with film, and germinated in the light, but not in direct sun, at a temperature of 22-25 °C (72-77 °F). Sprouts require airing. It is essential to avoid overwatering and drying out of sowings.

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During the growth period (in winter), the succulent must receive plenty of sunlight; it is best to place the plant on the south side. It tolerates high summer temperatures well, up to 40 °C (104 °F). In winter, fairly high temperatures of around 20-25 °C (68-77 °F) should also be maintained, although it tolerates light frost for a short period if in dry soil.

The dormant period in Antimima begins in summer, and watering during this time is almost completely eliminated; with the start of growth, the plant should be watered moderately, allowing the soil to dry out. It can be misted occasionally and fed with fertilizer once a month. Antimima grows relatively easily and is not demanding. The plant is very prone to rot and can easily perish from overwatering.