Frithia pulchra - Fairy Elephant's Feet
A small, unusual succulent from South Africa’s Magaliesberg region, Frithia pulchra survives extreme conditions by shrinking into the ground during drought, leaving only its translucent leaf tips visible. These “windows” let in light while the rest of the plant stays protected beneath quartz gravel.
It grows as a tight cluster of cylindrical leaves with rounded tips, and in spring it puts out vivid magenta flowers with pale centers that sit right at the surface. Each bloom measures about 1.5 inches across and can appear singly or in small flushes.
This is a summer grower that thrives in gritty, fast-draining soil with strong light and good airflow. Water well in summer, but let the soil dry completely between soakings. Keep it nearly dry in winter. Overwatering is the biggest risk—especially in cool or humid conditions. Hardy to around 25°F if kept dry.
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