Conophytum maughanii has moderate disease resistance and is relatively sensitive to humidity. It is prone to disease when humidity is high and can develop root rot during dormancy. In terms of care, Conophytum maughanii is drought tolerant but requires more water in the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Conophytum maughanii is suited to growers with some experience, though it can be difficult to care for, particularly during dormancy. It is especially appropriate for people who can devote time to its care during the winter months.
How to keep Conophytum Maughanii.
Light
Originating from dry regions, Conophytum maughanii performs best in full sun, as its native habitat is marked by intense sunlight and scarce shade. It can also tolerate partial sun, providing some flexibility in its growth.
Temperature
While Conophytum maughanii tolerates some heat, it mainly thrives and grows in the cooler seasons and becomes dormant in summer. In hot summer temperatures, provide shade to avoid scorching from intense sunlight. Watering should be reduced or stopped during the hottest part of the year to prevent root rot. Winter and spring are when Conophytum maughanii grows vigorously, and as long as temperatures do not fall too low, it will continue to grow steadily.
Fertilizer
For Conophytum maughanii, light doses of fertilizer applied once or twice a year during the growing season are sufficient. Avoid fertilizing in winter and summer when the plant is dormant. Reduce fertilizer for repotted plants and wait a couple of months after repotting before fertilizing. Fertilizing supports healthy growth and encourages blooms.
Pot & Repot
Choose a pot a little larger than the current one that provides good drainage. Use a gritty, well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Carefully lift the plant from its old pot, brush off loose soil, and plant it at the same depth. Wait several days before watering so any root damage can heal. Repot in spring or fall and place it in a brightly lit spot.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Conophytum
- Family
- Aizoaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 2 cm to 4 cm
- Mature Spread
- 3 cm to 5 cm
- Leaf Color
- Light Green, Gray
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Pink, White
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early fall, Mid fall
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Late fall, Early winter