Family: Aizoaceae

The 50 or so species of this South African genus of succulents are so similar that many may be hybrids. They are prostrate, almost stemless, with branched shoots of tongueshaped, very fleshy, glossy, dark green leaves. Sometimes the leaves are curved or tapered to a sharp point. The large, daisy-like yellow flowers, 8 cm (3 in) across, bloom in the summer through to late in winter. Occasionally, the flowers can be white.

Species

G. fragrans has thick, tongue-shaped leaves and large, fragrant, golden yellow flow­ers.

G. linguiforme, the most commonly grown species, has glossy, bright green, tongue-shaped leaves and golden yellow flowers.

G. semicylindricum has the same golden yellow flowers but its leaves are quite distinc­tive, projecting stiffly outwards. They are semi-cylindrical, slightly curved and pale green. In full sun, the margins become bright red.

Cultivation

In areas prone to frost, grow in an intermediate greenhouse or conservatory, in pots of cactus compost, obtainable from good garden centers. Provide maximum light. Water moderately from the middle of summer to the end of winter, and keep the compost almost dry when the plants are dormant. Propagate from seed in spring with bottom heat. Alternatively, use stem cuttings taken towards the end of summer.

Climate

Zone 10.