about the plant
Othonna euphorbioides is a rare caudiciform species native to the arid regions of the Northern Cape in South Africa. In habitat, it grows among rocky, mineral-rich slopes and dry shrubland, where the climate is cool and moist in winter but hot and extremely dry in summer. This seasonal environment shapes its natural rhythm as a winter-growing plant, producing leaves during the cooler months and resting through the harsh summer drought.
sizing
Size approximately 150 mm tall (equivalent to around 3–5 years old)
CARING TIPS
Note
The following care guide is suggested based on the weather conditions of NSW and VIC. For other Australian states, please use this as a reference and adjust according to your local climate.
Origin
Northern Cape, South Africa
Dry desert / dry shrubland habitat
Rocky, gritty slopes in arid Namqualand areas
Life Cycle & Dormancy
Autumn – Winter → active growth
Usually grows best from around April to September
Produces fresh green leaves during the cooler season
Small yellow daisy-like flowers may appear during active growth
Spring – Summer → semi-dormant to dormant
May drop most or all leaves during hot, dry periods
Leaf drop during summer is normal due to heat and seasonal rest
Soil
Very fast draining mix
Mineral-heavy soil strongly recommended
Pumice, lava rock, coarse sand & small gravel work well
Use only a small amount of organic matter
Avoid rich, water-retentive potting mix
Watering
Water deeply only when fully dry
Autumn – Winter → light to regular watering, depending on temperature and airflow
During humid or rainy weeks, wait longer between watering
Spring → gradually reduce watering
Summer → keep almost dry, especially during hot dormant periods
Do not water on extremely hot, stagnant or humid days
Light
Bright light to gentle full sun
Morning sun is ideal
Strong light encourages compact growth
Protect from harsh afternoon sun during heatwaves
Best grown with strong light and very good airflow
Temperature
Best: 10–22°C during active growth
Hot summer weather can trigger dormancy
Winter minimum: 5–8°C if kept dry and well ventilated
Protect from frost, heavy rain and long wet periods
Move under cover during extended rainy weeks
SHIPPING & RETURNS
Plant may drop its leaves during shipping or in Sydney’s cooler months, especially from June to August. This is normal, as the plant is deciduous and can naturally enter dormancy during autumn and winter. New leaves will usually grow back once the weather becomes warmer and brighter.
After arrival, soak the plant in water or diluted HB101 / Seasol for 3–5 hours. Then keep it in shade for 1–2 days to recover and adapt gently.
For live plants, we ship them bareroot (roots only, without soil and pot). This helps make the shipping process smoother, faster, and safer, while also greatly reducing the risk of root rot during transit.
Pots, soil mixes, and fertilizers will be packed carefully and shipped securely.
You can read the full shipping policy here.