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WYSIWYG

Pterodiscus makatiniensis

Pterodiscus
$ 45.00 / plant
Plant selection In stock · 1 of 1
Quantity Qty
Sales Type Retail, WYSIWYG
Product Size W3.2cm
Packaged Weight Actual packaged weight varies by product and root system. 0.15 kg
Propagation Method Seed-grown

Description

Geographic & Climate

  • Geographic Coordinates: 27°15'S to 27°45'S, 32°10'E to 32°30'E (Makatini Flats, northern KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa)

  • Climate Classification: Subtropical semi-arid / Humid subtropical climate (Cfa / BSh transitional zones)

  • Habitat Characteristics: Low-altitude flatlands, elevations ranging from 50 to 150 meters; annual rainfall concentrated in summer (approx. 500–700 mm); heavy heavy clay or clay-loam soils, often found growing alongside geophytic vegetation.

Botanical Morphology

  • Diagnostic Features: Features a swollen, sculptural caudex with annual herbaceous stems; leaves are wavy-margined and green, complemented by characteristic trumpet-shaped, pleasant primrose-yellow to soft orange flowers that open individually for a single day during the active growing season.

  • Growth Habit: Deciduous perennial caudiciform; enters dormancy in autumn/winter by shedding annual stems and leaves; moderate to slow growth rate, forming a compact, sculptural potted specimen.

History & Etymology

  • Etymology: The genus name Pterodiscus derives from Greek, meaning "winged disc", referring to the distinctive winged seed capsules typical of the genus. The specific epithet makatiniensis refers to its native type locality, the Makatini Flats in South Africa.

  • Historical Context: Formally described and published by succulent specialist R.G. Peckover in 2016 (Aloe 52(1): 10) based on populations discovered in the localized clay flats of northern KwaZulu-Natal, adding a distinct yellow-flowering caudex representative to cultivation from this specific region.

Care Guide

Essential Care Tips for Thriving Plants

Light

Provide partial to full sun. Most plants thrive on direct UV exposure. Avoid placing behind window glass, as it filters out the essential UV rays needed for healthy growth.

Water

Follow the "Soak and Dry" principle. Ensure the top 2–3 cm of soil is bone dry before watering (use the finger test). Reduce frequency in winter, but do not stop watering entirely.

Temperature

The ideal range is 18–35 °C. Maintain temperatures above 5 °C during winter. Please note that temperatures below 0 °C pose a significant risk of plant death.

Humidity

Best kept at 30–50% humidity. Note: High air humidity is not a substitute for root watering. Avoid overly damp areas to prevent root rot or leggy side shoots.

Soil

A loose, well-draining medium is ideal. A mix containing 50–70% grit or mineral soil is recommended for aeration. Outdoor ground planting is also a viable option.

Fertilizer

Fertilize during repotting using Osmocote A2 slow-release fertilizer. Apply sparingly twice a year, or adjust the fertilizer type based on your specific home environment.

Planting Guide

Start Your Green Journey in 4 Steps

Unbox & Inspect

Carefully unpack and inspect the plant’s body and roots. We recommend taking photos or videos immediately for your records. Place it in a shaded, well-ventilated spot for 1–2 days to acclimate to its new environment.

Potting & Placement

After 24 hours of rest, pot the plant using slightly moistened soil. Place it in a bright, airy location to encourage recovery. Keep away from AC vents or heaters to prevent damage from temperature fluctuations.

First Watering

Use water that has sat for at least 24 hours. If using the damp-potting method, wait 2–3 days before the first watering. Ensure a thorough soak until water drains freely from the bottom.

Daily Care

Monitor leaf condition and soil moisture daily. If the soil remains damp, increase ventilation rather than watering. Proper airflow is essential to prevent root rot and ensure lasting health.