Botanical Name: Rhombophyllum dolabriforme
Common Names: Elkhorn Plant
📌 Product Description
Rhombophyllum dolabriforme is a compact, sculptural mesemb native to the arid regions of South Africa. It is distinguished by its thick, wedge-shaped leaves arranged in opposite pairs, forming tight clumps that resemble miniature elk horns.
The grey-green foliage has a firm, angular structure, giving it a bold architectural look. During late winter to spring, the plant produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers that open in sunshine, creating a striking contrast against the muted foliage.
This is a true water-wise collector’s plant, ideal for Karoo-style and xeriscape 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 out completely between watering
• Reduce watering significantly in mid-summer dormancy
• Avoid overwatering
Temperature: Prefers dry, warm climates
Frost: Light frost tolerant but protect from severe frost
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 during hot summer months
🌼 Additional Benefits
✔ Indigenous South African species
✔ Extremely drought tolerant
✔ Sculptural, collector’s succulent
✔ Bright seasonal yellow flowers
✔ Ideal for xeriscaping
🌿 Ideal Uses
✔ Rock gardens
✔ Succulent bowls
✔ Karoo-style landscapes
✔ Water-wise gardens
✔ Collector mesemb displays
✔ Patio containers

