Description
Many of the members of this family are referred to as mesembs or “mimicry plants” as they typically resemble stones or gravel, allowing them to blend in with their natural surroundings. To protect themselves from windy conditions and intense sunlight the leaves remain mostly buried in soil with only the translucent tips showing, which look like small pebbles. The transparent tops of the leaves are flat or rounded, and serve as windows, allowing light to enter and perform photosynthesis inside the leaf.
This is the only species in the Fenestraria genus.
Exposure: Full sun with protection from heat
Soil type: Cactus and succulent mix with extra grit
Soil pH: 6.0-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral
Time to maturity: 2-5 years
Mature size: 8 inches wide x 2 inches high
