Botanical Name: Rhombophyllum dolabriforme
Common Names: Elkhorn Plant, Wedge-Leaf Mesemb, Dolabriform Mesemb, Karoo Elkhorn, Elk Horn Succulent
📌 Product Description
Rhombophyllum dolabriforme is a compact, sculptural mesemb indigenous to South Africa’s arid regions. It forms dense clumps of thick, wedge-shaped leaves arranged in opposite pairs, giving the plant a distinctive “elk horn” appearance.
The grey-green foliage is firm and angular, creating a strong architectural presence in rockeries and succulent displays. In late winter to spring, it produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that open in full sun, adding vibrant seasonal colour.
This drought-adapted species is ideal for collectors and water-wise gardens.
📏 Size When Fully Grown
Height: 10 – 20 cm
Spread: 20 – 40 cm
Growth Habit: Low-growing, clump-forming
Growth Rate: Moderate
🌱 Best Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to very bright light
Soil: Extremely well-draining sandy or gritty succulent mix
Water:
• Water sparingly
• Allow soil to dry completely between watering
• Reduce watering during peak summer dormancy
• Avoid overwatering (rot-sensitive)
Temperature: Prefers warm, dry conditions
Frost: Light frost tolerant if kept dry
Fertiliser: Minimal feeding required
🌦️ Planting & Growing Season (South Africa)
Best Planting Time: Autumn to early spring
Active Growing Season: Autumn, winter, and early spring (winter-growing mesemb)
Flowering Season: Late winter to spring
Climate Suitability: Excellent for Western Cape and winter-rainfall areas; adaptable in containers nationwide
Dormancy: Semi-dormant in hot summer months
🌼 Additional Benefits
✔ Indigenous South African species
✔ Extremely water-wise
✔ Unique sculptural foliage
✔ Bright seasonal yellow blooms
✔ Ideal for collector gardens
✔ Excellent for xeriscaping
🌿 Ideal Uses
✔ Rock gardens
✔ Succulent bowls
✔ Karoo-style landscapes
✔ Water-wise gardens
✔ Collector mesemb displays
✔ Patio containers
