Dry conditions - Plant Encyclopedia Results

Dwarf ruellia plants never get over 1 ft tall and the flowers are bunched right in with the leaves on very short stems. Although the blossoms each last only one day, there are usually plenty of buds forming so that there is a succession of new blooms over long periods. The leaves of this ruellia are dark green and very slender. The flower resembles a Petunia in form. As with the other ruellias, this flower does well under quite a variety of conditions, including full sun to shade, as well as dry to damp. They are rather cold-tender and can sometimes be killed by a very hard freeze, but most of the time they come back from the roots.

Stenocereus is a genus of tall, columnar cacti known for their multiple-stemmed, branching form that often resembles organ pipes or tentacles. Native to arid regions of Mexico and Central America, these cacti thrive in full sun and well-drained, rocky soils. They are highly drought-tolerant and well adapted to extreme heat.

Most species grow slowly and reach heights between 6 and 20 feet over time, with upright stems that may occasionally arch outward. The surface of the stems typically has 8 to 12 ribs, each lined with areoles and spines. Some species of Stenocereus, such as S. queretaroensis and S. thurberi, are cultivated for their large, sweet fruits, which are locally known and appreciated. However, the fruits of most species in the genus are technically edible but remain small, grow high on tall stems, and are more often consumed by birds than harvested by people.

Flowering usually occurs in summer, with large funnel-shaped blooms in shades of white, pink, or red, depending on species. The flowers open at night or in the early morning and often attract bats or moths. Many species have thick, waxy epidermis that helps retain moisture in extreme heat.

Stenocereus species can generally tolerate temperatures down to about 25F, though some may suffer damage below 30F. Container growing is possible for young plants, but mature specimens are best suited to open ground in warm, dry climates.

The genus is sometimes confused with Pachycereus due to the similar columnar growth habit, but Stenocereus tends to have thinner stems and a more shrubby base.

Notable species include Stenocereus thurberi, native to the Sonoran Desert, which often forms large clumps and bears sweet, edible fruit known as pitaya dulce. Stenocereus pruinosus is recognizable by its bluish stems and bright pink flowers, with fruits sold in local markets. Stenocereus stellatus is a rarer type with narrow stems and highly decorative flowers.

The plant is closely related to Opuntia microdasys, and is sometimes taken as its subspecies, Opuntia microdasys subsp. rufida.

Kalanchoe serrata, commonly known as Kalanchoe Magic Tower, is a tough little shrub with a lot of punch. This plant species can reach heights of 2-5 feet and will display an array of vibrant pink flowers from late spring through to autumn, making it an ornamental foliage in any garden. From midseason to late summer,Kalanchoe serrata produces red and crimson vinous flowers that add some depth and color to gardens.

Kalanchoe serrata is known to be a very easy plant to care for and is adaptable to a range of USDA hardiness zones from 9-11, so it can be found thriving in many parts of the USA. This succulent can tolerate both full sun and dry conditions, making it a low maintenance garden beauty. Even better, this magnificent specimen is also highly tolerant of salty wind and spray, making it a great seaside or coastal favorite.

A mature Kalanchoe serrata can handle hard frost, as is cold hardy to temperatures as low as 30sF. It can survive a short time in these colder regions, but should be properly protected with a warm layer of mulch or a thick layer of leaves. It may also benefit from being planted in containers or pots, and can then be brought indoors to overwinter. This will ensure the pot and root system keep warm and is better for the health of the plant.

All in all, Kalanchoe serrata may provide a cheerful addition to your garden and is worth the investment for its beautiful flowers and salt-tolerance. With minimal effort and proper plant care, this small shrub is sure to prosper!

Curio rowleyanus (Senecio rowleyanus), also called String of pearls, is an excellent groundcover for dry rock gardens or for edging garden paths. It is a low-growing plant, and can cope with a variety of light exposures, from full sun to semi-shade. It has attractive white and off-white flowers that are highly fragrant, and its small succulent leaves are low maintenance and thrive in dry, sandy conditions. In the right environment, this plant can quickly spread and form a beautiful, green tangle that adds texture and scent to the landscape.

Plant is native to South Africa, and is hardy in USDA Zone 9-11. Plants in colder climates should be grown in pots and brought inside during the winter months. Potted plants require well-drained soil. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, reducing watering even further during winter when the plant is resting.

Overall, Curio rowleyanus is a great choice for those looking for an aromatic, drought-tolerant groundcover for gardens or containers. With its colourful and fragrant flowers combined with its low-maintenance attributes, this plant is sure to add interest to any outdoor space.

Fleshy stems and leaves, they are one of the very few annual succulents. They tolerate heat and drought.

A Purslane cultivar grown as a vegetable. There are a number of cultivars, some rose pink, red, yellow, white, and orange flowers.

The ancient Maya of Central America believed that a great Ceiba tree stood at the center of the earth, connecting the terrestrial world to the spirit-world above. The long thick vines hanging down from its spreading limbs provided a connection to the heavens for the souls that ascended them. Even today, these grand trees are regularly spared when forests are cut it is a common event to see lone, isolated Ceiba trees proudly spreading their shady branches high above a pasture or agricultural field, a relict of the great forests that once were there. The giant limbs of the umbrella-shaped crown are laden with epiphytes (aerial plants) and provide a home for countless species of animals. Birds feed and nest in the tree's high perches, mammals use the enormous limbs as aerial highways, frogs raise their tadpoles in the tiny pools that collect in bromeliads, and insects reach the peak of their diversity in the canopy of giant trees like the Ceiba. Ceiba flowers open in the evening and are pollinated by pollen- and nectar-feeding bats. Their kapok-surrounded seeds are adapted for dispersal by wind.

Some varieties / cultivars have spiny trunks, others smooth.

See Article about this tree:

Ceiba pentandra, Kapok Tree - Maya's Sacred Tree at the Center of the Earth.

Huernia sp. is a small plant that grows 2-5 ft tall and comes in an array of unusual colors. The flowers are red, crimson and vinous, while some species possess abundant yellow, orange and red flowers. These blooms are often star-shaped and may appear in singles or clumps.

This plant thrives best when placed in a warm location with full sun. It also enjoys being in semi-shade and requires moderate amounts of water and dry conditions. It is of easy care and requires little pruning and maintenance. Grown in USDA plant hardiness zones of 9 to 11, Huernia can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it is best to keep it away from frost and snow. In colder regions, cultivate it in a pot and bring it indoors during the cold season. It prefers well-draining soil such as a cactus potting mixture, and provide enough water for the soil to remain lightly moist.

These exotic plants are usually pest- and disease-free but may be affected by mealybugs and scale. Be on the lookout for these unwanted visitors and take action with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

This plant may be difficult to find. But if you manage to get a hold of one, it will surely be a real conversation-starter!