Conophytum herreanthus ssp. rex

Frost Tolerance: Tender, resistant to 32°F (0°C) for short periods

Sun Exposure: Light shade

Origin: South Africa

Propagation: Cuttings, seeds

Next to Lithops, Conophytum (or "Cone Plant") is the most popular genus of the mesembs. Cultivate the Conophytum in a larger pot than seems needed, their root system is pretty large. Use a soil mixture that drains rapidly, a good cactus mix for instance.

Culture:
Conophytum are dormant in summer. Water is taken away from the old leaves, while a new set of leaves is growing, so no water is generally necessary. At the end of the summer, the new leaves start growing, and the watering can start. Watering them carefully, too much water will make them split, not enough water will prevent their growth. Water whenever the soil mixture feels dry.
Conophytums can burn very easily in the sun. Keep them in the shade during the rest period, and never move a plant into a brighter situation without acclimating it slowly to higher light levels.

Propagation:
Plant seeds any time of the year. Keep in high humidity until the seeds germinate (around a week). The seedlings are fragile, keep them well watered, use diluted fertilizer. Don't transplant them until their start crowding each others.