Aichryson villosum (subalpine form) Exclusive
Aichryson villosum (subalpine form) Exclusive
10cm, smaller form of the species described above, which probably merits a rank of a subspecies (Aichryson villosum ssp. ruivoense pro ssp. nov.), as it differs in various aspects from the common species. It grows on vertical cliffs at subalpine altitudes on the highest elevations on Madeira (e.g. below Pico Ruivo at some 1.720m). In contrast to the species it has smaller, more succulent leaves and a lower inflorescence which gains little more than 10cm in height and diameter. Its leaves are densely pubescent and show a nice reddish tinge under sunny conditions. It usually grows as a biannual, but it is easily propagated by seeds. This subspecies has a frost resistance down to -7°C/20°F for a short period. An ideal plant for the unheated greenhouse or the cool wintergarden.More Details »