Bergeranthus Big  (Bergeranthus multiceps)

Description

The Carpet Plant Bergeranthus Big is a mat-forming, clumping succulent species in the Aizoaceae family from South Africa. It's the same family as the ice plants and other members of the mesemb family, but these have their own charms. This low-growing plant will form cushions of soft, fleshy, finger-like leaves that cling to the ground and widen out more than grow upward. Once mature, it develops lovely cheerful yellow, daisy-like flowers that open up in good sunlight and contrast nicely against the fresh, green flesh.

The Bergeranthus Big enjoys lots of light. It will be happiest on a sunny warm patio, balcony or border where it will just grow out and fill up into a dense carpet.  On a sunny windowsill indoors where it will receive several hours of direct sun per day will suffice too. Because Bergeranthus Big has a low, spreading and mound forming growth, it’s an excellent specimen for planting in shallow dishes, for the rockery or for a mixed arrangement with taller and more upright succulents.

A sturdy, drought tolerant, water-retaining leaf succulent, this requires very little attention and is perfect for those wanting a fuss free, sun loving succulent. The plant matures slowly, spreading and thickening at the base to form a woody rootstock that often lifts just above soil level, giving a tough, ancient, weathered look to your Bergeranthus Big!

Key Features

• Low-growing, clumping succulent with thick, finger-like fleshy leaves
• Produces cheerful, daisy-like yellow flowers in bright light
• Drought-tolerant and stores water in its leaves, needing only occasional watering
• Spreading, mound-forming habit suited to shallow bowls and rock gardens
• Thrives in full sun, can be grown outdoors or indoors on a sunny windowsill
• Low-maintenance and well suited to first-time succulent owners
• Develops a thickened, slightly raised rootstock with age, adding character
• It does look good at the bottom of succulent compositions as undergrowth

Care at a Glance

Product Specifications

What's in the Box

• 1 × Live Bergeranthus Big plant
• 1 × Pot (Bare-rooted/Pot: Optional)
• Potting mix
• Basic care guide

Important Notes

• Remember, the leaves grow naturally on a plant and come in different sizes and sprawl, same as with flowers
• Flowering depends on light exposure; plants kept in lower light may not flower as readily
• In the case of a succulent, a little leaf bruising is to be expected during transit and should be healed within two weeks.
• Don’t place it in the direct, hot, afternoon sun just out of the box – acclimatise your new plant to the position you choose
• Growth slows down noticeably in winter, which is normal dormant behaviour for this plant
• Keep away from waterlogged soil, as overwatering is the most common cause of rot in Bergeranthus

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why hasn't my Bergeranthus Big flowered yet?

A: Flowering for Bergeranthus is really triggered by plenty of bright light. Plants grown in low light conditions will generally just grow green leaves and will not form the daisy like yellow flowers. Give it more light, as much as possible in your warmest months, including several hours of direct sun.

Q: How much and when should I water this plant?

A: Water only once the soil has thoroughly dried from last time you watered. This will mean, depending on your climate and pot size between 1-2 waterings in summer, and about once a month in winter. Feel the soil before watering instead of sticking to a schedule.

Q: Can Bergeranthus Big be grown indoors?

A: Bergeranthus Big can be kept indoors provided it gets several hours of direct sun or very bright indirect light each day, for example a south-facing window. Usually they thrive outdoors and look most compact in a very well lit location as they do tend to elongate when in low light.

Q: How fast does this plant grow?

A: Bergeranthus Big grown from a moderate to slow plant. Over time, it gradually forms a low, mounding plant rather than a tall one. Part of its beauty is that it's slow growing to form a mat.

Q: When Should I Replant? 

A: Every 2-3 years should do fine, best is in spring/summer, while the plant is actually growing. A wide and shallow pot with drainage works very well, since it is a horizontal grower.

Q: Is this plant pet friendly?

A: Bergeranthus are typically non-toxic to cats and dogs. That said, as a rule of thumb, always keep any plant out of the way of pets who have a habit of gnawing on the foliage and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns regarding consumption.