Muiria

Family. Aizoaceae.

Origin. South Africa.

Description. Muiria belongs to the group of living stones. The leaves are juicy, light green, round, irregularly shaped, about 2 cm in diameter, covered with fluff, fused in pairs. During the flowering period, the outer shell of the leaves bursts and a flower stalk and new leaves appear from the crack. Over time, the old leaf shell withers and turns brown. The flowers resemble chamomile, pink or white, with many long and thin petals.

Height. Up to 5 cm.

Home care

Temperature conditions

In spring, summer and autumn they are kept at normal room temperature. In winter, it is necessary to give the plant a rest period for more abundant flowering and place it in a cool room with a temperature of about 12° C. Some types of muiria can withstand frosts down to -17° C. 

Lighting

Succulents prefer a brightly lit location, but if exposed to direct sunlight during the day, the leaves may turn red.

Care

A very difficult species to grow, suitable only for experienced succulent collectors. The main difficulty in maintenance is watering - during the growing season it should be regular, but not frequent. In summer, the bush will feel great in the open air, protected from wind and rain. Remove wilting buds to extend the flowering period.

Substrate

The main requirement is excellent drainage. For the rest, nutritious loose soil with a fairly high organic content and the addition of a large amount of coarse river sand is suitable.

Feeding

During the growing season, 2 times a month with liquid fertilizers for succulent plants, diluted to half the recommended dose. 

Flowering time

Blooms in early spring.

Air humidity

Muiria does not require spraying. Keep in a dry place in winter. Provide a place where the flower will receive sufficient air movement without cold drafts.

Soil moisture

Water sparingly during the growing season. Plants tolerate heat and drought well. In winter, reduce watering even more.

Transplant

In spring, before flowering. Muiria has a fairly large root system and needs a spacious pot with large drainage holes.

Reproduction

Seeds that are sown in the spring.

Pests and diseases

If waterlogging and stagnation of water occur at the roots, rotting may occur. If there is too much nutrition, the leaves may become swollen and eventually crack.

The main pests are aphids and mealybugs.