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Othonna lepidocaulis
AdvancedOthonna lepidocaulis
A winter-growing Othonna whose golden trunk is covered in tightly packed, fish-scale-like leaf bases, like a miniature corn cob. It is among the rarest Othonna in South Africa.
About
Othonna lepidocaulis is a winter-growing caudiciform in the daisy family from Little Namaqualand in South Africa (Komkans near Vredendal and the Knersvlakte). Its extent of occurrence is under 320 km² and it is known from fewer than five sites, making it one of the rarest Othonna in South Africa. It grows on the south- to east-facing slopes of low hills, on patches of white quartz pebbles over very alkaline soil, among a rich flora of small succulents such as Conophytum. It is a little-branched, deciduous shrublet up to about 23 cm tall with a golden trunk covered in tightly packed leaf bases like fish scales, resembling a miniature corn cob; the name comes from the Greek for "scale" and "stem". Flat, grey-glaucous, oblanceolate leaves 3.5–6 cm long form rosettes at the woolly branch tips. In the wild it is leafless and dormant through the hot, dry summer, starts growing with the first autumn rains and in winter bears small yellow heads with narrow rays on long stalks. It and Othonna herrei are considered the most impressive species in the genus. In Japan potted plants are sold online and by specialist nurseries.
Size of the Othonna lepidocaulis
The Othonna lepidocaulis grows to Up to about 23 cm tall.
Basic Info
Origin
Little Namaqualand and the Knersvlakte, South Africa
Lifespan
Long-lived shrublet (little published data)
Size
Up to about 23 cm tall
Temperature
10〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Light feeding in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Grow it in full sun from autumn to spring.
Watering
A winter grower: start watering when growth resumes in autumn. In cultivation it appears to need more water than most Othonna.
Dormancy Care
It is leafless and dormant in summer; keep it dry then so the caudex does not rot.
Soil & Repotting
It grows among quartz pebbles, so use a gritty, free-draining mix.
Propagation
Seed is the best way to propagate it, but seed is rarely available in quantity and tedious to collect.
Othonna lepidocaulis FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Othonna lepidocaulis?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QHow large does Othonna lepidocaulis get?
The mature size of Othonna lepidocaulis is Up to about 23 cm tall. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Othonna lepidocaulis?
Othonna lepidocaulis: watering & fertilizer — Light feeding in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Othonna lepidocaulis?
The price of Othonna lepidocaulis varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in CITES (checked on Species+). No special procedure is needed for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Othonna lepidocaulis
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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