Trichodiadema barbatum, also known as the Pickle Plant or Bearded Crownfig, is a fascinating succulent native to South Africa.
 
Foliage:
It features small, cylindrical, green to grey-green leaves.
A distinctive characteristic is the tufty bristles of soft, white hairs at the tips of its leaves, giving it a "bearded" appearance.
Flowers:
It produces small, vibrant flowers, typically magenta-pink with a yellow center.
These flowers usually bloom in spring and summer.
Growth Habit:
It starts as an erect plant and then tends to spread out, forming a groundcover.
It has a tuberous root base, which can be exposed for decorative purposes.
Caudex:
It developes a caudex, which is a thickened stem or root, that can be raised for display.
Cultivation:
Sunlight:
It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Soil:
Requires well-draining soil, such as a cactus or succulent mix.
Watering:
Needs infrequent watering, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
It is drought-tolerant.
Temperature:
It is cold hardy to around 25°F (-4°C), but prolonged freezing temperatures can damage it.
Key Features and Uses:
Its unique foliage and vibrant flowers make it a popular choice for succulent gardens and rockeries.
It can be grown in containers and hanging baskets.
The exposed tuberous roots add an interesting aesthetic, particularly in bonsai-style displays.
It has been awarded the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit.
Origin:
Native to South Africa, particularly regions like the Eastern Cape.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide.  Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.
 
*** Stock is subject to availability. Should an ordered item become unavailable a full refund for said item will be given within 48hrs.