Avonia
Origin
The genus Avonia belongs to the family Portulacaceae. The approximately 20 species belonging to it were formerly part of the genus Anacampseros, but were reclassified into their own genus in 1994. Their original home is in South Africa.
Appearance
The succulents form a caudex that can reach 5 cm to 10 cm in diameter. Avonia has green leaves covered with a layer of small, papery, white stipules. These fit tightly around the plant's branches and protect them from drying out. The flower is very small, white, cream-colored or purple, and lasts only a very short time in most species.
Care
Location: This genus should be placed in a sunny and bright spot. A lot of light is necessary to bring the succulents into bloom.
Substrate: A mixture of cactus and succulent soil with mineral components such as pumice, gravel or vermiculite is suitable as a substrate. The substrate should be loose and permeable so that no water remains in the soil, but can drain well. They also feel comfortable in pure pumice.
Watering: With Avonia plants, it's better to water too little than too much, and only when the substrate is dry. Succulents do not tolerate waterlogging, so the water should drain through the drainage hole in the bottom of the pot or be emptied after a few minutes if there is no hole.
Fertilizer: During the growing season, you can fertilize approximately once a month with cactus and succulent fertilizer. During the dormant period, succulents do not require fertilizer.
Summer/Winter: Avonia can spend the summer outdoors after being gradually acclimated to the sun. If temperatures drop below 10°C, the succulent should be brought back indoors. A location with 15°C is optimal in winter. During this time, fertilizing should be stopped and watering should be infrequent.
Popular species
Avonia papyracea: This succulent has a rosette-shaped growth habit. Its flower is white or cream-colored, but usually only lasts for a few hours. The plant can reach a height of 10 cm.
Note: The genus Avonia is generally non-toxic, but we cannot guarantee compatibility with animals.