Origin and Habitat: Originally native from Western Cape (South Africa) it has been introduced elsewhere.
Habitat: Grows on rocky outcrops and on quartz pebble patches.

• Braunsia apiculata (Kensit) L. Bolus
• Echinus apiculatus (Kensit) L. Bolus
• Mesembryanthemum apiculatum Kensit

Description: It is a dwarf mat-forming perennial succulent which has short woody erect or prostrate stems. The whole plant is velvety and can grow up to 200 mm tall.
Leaves: Silvery green, keel shaped, paired, opposite, stacking one pair on top of the other. They are joined for a quarter to half of their length, with pale cartilaginous or translucent margins and ending in a sharp, dry point
Flowers: Pretty pink or magenta.
Blooming season: Early spring.

Cultivation and Propagation: It is a moderately slow growing pot subject. This species is easy to grow and clumps forming a beautiful succulent mat. Needs moderate water when growing in late fall and early spring. Keep somewhat dry the rest of the time. Like all living rocks, they thrive in porous soils with excellent drainage. It can tolerates high heat and some frost (hardy to -5° C or less if very dry). It is a very rewarding succulent and can be cultivated in desert garden in warm climates or in greenhouses or windowsills in the home where too hardy. Enjoy bright shade in summer and full sun on the other seasons.
Propagation:: They grow quickly from seed or by division of larger clumps.