Trichodiadema bulbosum

Trichodiadema bulbosum, also known as African Bonsai or Mesembryanthemum bulbosum, is an interesting succulent plant native to southern Africa.

The bright green to grey-green leaves are decorated with a diadem of small bristles at the tips. The leaves of this plant are small and rarely exceed 5 millimetres in size. Trichodiadema has thickened roots that can reach up to 30 cm thick in nature. These roots serve as a reservoir of water and nutrients and allow the plant to survive in harsh conditions. The above-ground shoots grow up to 60 cm in length in nature and become semi-flaccid over time.

During the flowering period, which usually occurs in early summer, a number of smaller flowers appear. The flowers are single, pink with yellow-green centres and grow up to 2 cm long.

This plant is ideal for window growers and lovers of interesting shapes, as it is characterised by its rapid, albeit smaller, growth. The plant is also drought tolerant. It will be happy with an east or south facing window. The roots can be raised above the surface of the substrate to add an extra element of appearance. It is important to wait until the roots have sufficiently thickened before lifting the caudex, as they will grow slowly after lifting. The thickening can be boosted by pruning. Even frequent cutting of the stems benefits the plant and we can shape it into the plant of our dreams. Trichodiadema bulbosum is thus a great plant for different growers and will delight enthusiasts with imagination and a taste for trying new ways of growing.