[Overview]
A succulent evergreen perennial or shrub.
The leaves are decussate (opposite, each pair at right angles to the next) and either flat or covered with papillae.
The flowers are large; what look like petals are staminodes, which are thin and glossy.
[Cultivation]
Propagate by stem cuttings.
It prefers a sunny, well-drained, well-ventilated site.
It is cold-hardy and can overwinter outdoors.
It dislikes heat and humidity.
Place pots on a shelf or similar so air can reach the bottom, and move them out of the rain during long rainy spells.
For potted plants, water thoroughly after the soil has dried completely; for plants in the ground, rainfall is sufficient.
Fertilizer is not particularly necessary, but for potted plants a small amount of slow-release chemical fertilizer may be placed on the soil in spring and autumn.
Pests and diseases include aphids, spider mites and scale insects.
