This has been grafted on Portulacaria. Plant grows into a beautiful bush. Our grafts are into second year of growth after grafting.

Ceraria namaquensis

1. Origin of Name:
The species "namaquensis" is derived from the Cape Province region of Namibia and South Africa called Namaqualand—an arid, mineral-rich landscape known for its unique flora. The suffix "ensis" indicates “originating from,” highlighting its endemic nature to that specific area. The plant was first described in 1924 by South African botanist Robert Harold Compton, who carefully cataloged endemic succulents in southern Africa. The name pays homage to its native habitat, emphasizing its geographic and ecological roots.

2. Origin of Plant:
Ceraria namaquensis is native to the Namaqualand region in Namibia and South Africa, a semi-desert environment characterized by rocky, gravelly soils, intense sunlight, and irregular rainfall. It was first documented during early 20th-century botanical explorations aimed at discovering endemic succulents that thrive in extreme desert conditions. Its native habitat includes rugged hillsides and rocky outcrops, where its drought-resistant adaptations help it survive in one of the most arid landscapes on earth.

3. Description:
This striking succulent forms a small, compact shrub usually reaching about 12–24 inches tall. It features a distinctive, branching caudex that is often covered with a coarse, corky bark, giving it a gnarled, antique appearance. From this base emerge cluster-like stems that are covered with dense spines, giving an almost woolly texture in certain growth stages. The overall structure resembles a miniature, rugged bonsai. In late winter or early spring, small, tubular, white or yellowish flowers appear at the tips of the stems, emitting a subtle fragrance and adding ornamental charm to the plant’s rugged aesthetic. Its unusual, almost sculptural form makes it a captivating centerpiece for succulent and xerophyte collections.

4. Conservation Status:
Ceraria namaquensis is currently not listed as endangered but is considered rare in cultivation and in the wild due to habitat specificity and limited distribution. Overharvesting, habitat disturbance, and climate change threaten its populations in some areas. Conservation efforts include habitat protection and sustainable cultivation practices, promoting propagation from seed and offsets to prevent wild collection pressure.

5. Care:

• Watering: Very low water requirements; water only when the soil is completely dry, typically once every few months. Reduce watering further during winter dormancy.
• Soil: Use a fast-draining, sandy or rocky cactus or succulent mix, mimicking its natural rocky terrain.
• Light: Needs full sun for best coloration, growth, and flowering. Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Temperature: Prefers warm to hot temperatures between 60°F–90°F (16°C–32°C) and is frost-sensitive—protect or bring indoors in cooler conditions.
• Additional Tips: Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. It thrives best in arid, nutrient-poor soils and appreciates good airflow. Repot and prune minimally to maintain its distinctive form.