Aptosimum procumbens, the Karoo violet, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae. It was first described by Johann Georg Christian Lehmann, and given the exact name by William John Burchell and Ernst Gottlieb von Steudel.
Carpetflower has moderate disease resistance and is relatively sensitive to humidity. It becomes vulnerable to disease in high-humidity conditions and is prone to root rot during dormancy. In terms of care, Carpetflower is drought tolerant but requires more water during the growing season. Watering should be greatly reduced or stopped entirely during the dormant period. Carpetflower is appropriate for growers with some experience, though it can be challenging to care for, particularly while dormant. It is especially suitable for people who can dedicate time to its care over the winter months.
How to keep Aptosimum Procumbens.
Light
Originating from arid regions, Carpetflower performs best in full sun, as its native habitat features intense sunlight and little shade. It will also tolerate partial sun, giving it some flexibility in growth.
Temperature
Although Carpetflower can tolerate some heat, it mostly thrives and grows in the cooler seasons and becomes dormant in summer. In hot summer weather, it should be shaded to avoid scorching from strong sunlight. Watering should be reduced or paused during the hottest period to prevent root rot. Winter and spring are the times when Carpetflower grows vigorously. If temperatures do not fall too low, it will keep growing steadily.
Fertilizer
For Carpetflower, apply light doses of fertilizer 1-2 times a year during the growing season. Do not fertilize in winter or summer when the plant is dormant. Use less fertilizer for plants that have been repotted and wait a couple of months after repotting before you start fertilizing. Fertilizing helps maintain healthy growth and promotes blooming.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Shrub, Succulent
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Aptosimum
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 10 cm to 20 cm
- Mature Spread
- 20 cm to 30 cm
- Leaf Color
- Green Yellow, Olive Drab
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- Lavender
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 2.03 cm
- Bloom Time
- Mid spring, Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Summer, Early fall
- Native Area
- South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana
