Piaranthus cornutus var. cornutus PVB5226 (Pofadder)

Piaranthus cornutus var. cornutus PVB5226 (Pofadder) is a distinctive and attractive stapeliad prized by collectors for its unusual, horned flowers and compact growth.

Description
A low-growing, clump-forming succulent with short, angular stems that are grey-green to olive in colour, often flushed purple in strong light. The stems are four-angled with soft, blunt teeth along the edges and form dense mats over time.

The flowers are borne near the base of the stems, usually singly or in small groups. Each flower is star-shaped with five broad, triangular lobes. The most striking feature is the prominent horn-like projections (cornute appendages) on the corolla lobes, which give the species its name. The flower surface is velvety and typically mottled or striped in shades of creamy yellow, pale green, brown, and maroon. The centre features a raised, intricate corona structure typical of stapeliads.

Flowers emit a faint to moderate carrion-like scent, especially in warm conditions, to attract pollinating flies.

Growth habit & size

• Height: ±5–10 cm

• Spread: forms spreading clumps over time

• Growth rate: slow to moderate

Habitat & distribution
Native to South Africa, where it grows in arid to semi-arid regions, often sheltered among rocks or under low shrubs.

Cultivation notes

• Light: bright light to light shade

• Water: sparingly; allow soil to dry between watering

• Soil: very well-drained succulent mix

• Sensitivity: prone to rot if overwatered or kept too cold and wet

A fascinating species for collectors of stapeliads, valued for its architectural stems and dramatic, horned flowers.

Plants on offer: 1-3 stems 3-5cm rooted. Shipped without pot or soil.

May or may not currently have flowers/buds.