What kind of growing environment does the Astridia velutina like?

Another name for Astridia velutina

Astridia velutina, also known as xunboju (smoked-wave chrysanthemum), is a succulent plant of the Aizoaceae family, genus Astridia.

Growth habits of Astridia velutina

Astridia velutina likes a warm, dry environment with plenty of sunlight. It is not cold-tolerant, is drought-tolerant, and fears high temperatures. In summer, pay attention to shading when caring for it, otherwise the surface easily becomes wrinkled. The planting soil for Astridia velutina should be fertile and loose.

Astridia velutina can be potted for winter viewing, and can also be hung or trailed for care, full of vitality and highlighting the festive atmosphere. As long as you place it in a cool, ventilated spot and water it when the potting soil is dry, it is very easy to keep alive.

Once you notice signs of growth, gradually resume normal watering. Astridia velutina has no obvious dormant period in summer; with cool, ventilated conditions it can safely pass the summer. The cool season is their peak growth period; below 2 degrees you should gradually stop watering. Keeping the potting soil dry is enough for it to get through winter.

Propagation methods for Astridia velutina

The commonly used propagation methods for Astridia velutina are sowing and cuttings. Sowing is generally done in 4~5 month, sown indoors in pots; after sowing, they sprout in about 10 days. The roots of the seedlings are rather fine, so watering must be done with care. After 1 month, the seedlings can be transplanted.

Cuttings are mainly done in spring and autumn; select plump stem segments, cut them into 8~10 cm, insert them in a sand bed, and they will root in 15~20 days. When the roots grow to 2~3 cm, they can be potted and planted.