Apteranthes europaea

Summary

Native to the Mediterranean and parts of the Middle East, including SE Spain, southern Italy, Morocco, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt, and Jordan, this leafless succulent is a low-growing stapeliad with ascending to sprawling stems. The 4-angled stems are up to 8 inches long and about 0.8 inches thick, with toothed or lobed edges. Flowers are up to 1 inch across, variably hairy, and range from dirty white or yellowish with reddish-brown or purplish bands to entirely purplish. Growth is strongest in spring and autumn, with flowering in autumn as temperatures cool.

Outdoor cultivation is preferred to avoid rot indoors, with ample sunlight and protection from overly shady sites to promote flowering; mature plants tolerate extremely high summer temperatures and are best grown under cover to manage watering. Propagation is by stem cuttings (year-round) or seeds; drainage must be excellent; shallow-rooted habit suits a wide shallow container, with roots buried and the base surrounded by pure gravel or sand to prevent rot. Hardiness zones: USDA 10a–11b. Traditional uses include aerial parts used as juice or powder with honey or milk for various diseases. Pharmacology includes anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, and antioxidant activities. A polyphenol-rich fraction shows hepatoprotective effects in a carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury mouse model.

Height

8 inches

Spread

8 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 10a-11b

Soil Type

Well-draining soil (sandy/gravel mix)

Soil Drainage

Extra good drainage

Bloom Color

Dirty white or yellowish with reddish-brown or purplish bands; can be entirely purplish.

Bloom Time

Fall

Foliage Color

Green, purplish-brown

Growth Rate

Low-growing

Seasons of Interest

Spring and Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Stem cuttings