Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii leaves

The spindle-shaped leaves of Adromischus filicaulis subsp. marlothii are circular in cross-section, tapering to both ends. The alternate leaves are borne erectly on short stalks from branching, succulent stems on the ground. Some stilted adventitious roots are sometimes found at stem nodes.

Young leaves are glaucous with white surface mottling; older leaves typically develop black lichen surface coverings. In the photo there is an orange translucence on some older leaves. Leaves may become 5 cm long and 1 cm in diameter at the centre (Vlok and Schutte-Vlok, 2010; iSpot; www.redlist.sanbi.org).