Succulents and lots of rain

All the rain has greatly benefited one of my succulents, my grass Aloe (A. cooperi) - moist soil, perfect conditions for these damp grassland species. This is the first time it has flowered since I acquired it early last year.

Indigenous to South African grasslands, A. cooperi grows singly or in small groups from offshoots at ground level. The flowers of Aloe cooperi vary in colour from greenish-cream to apricot and salmon pink. Easy and lovely in the garden and smaller than most Aloes, Aloe cooperi is hardier than most too – down to 10 degrees F (-12℃ - although we've never had it that cold here in Tarlton (Gauteng, South Africa). The blooming stalks grow to 3’ (1m) tall and bear very attractive flower heads. The thin leaves are held in a fan shape & are evergreen in milder climates. Aloe cooperi forms offsets freely. The leaves & flowers are eaten by the Zulu people. It is also used traditionally to ease birth.

The base of A. cooperi - I think it's ready to go into the ground now

Another succulent which just loves lots of water, expecially if it is in full sun, is Crassula imperialis. They then get bright green and put up a gorgeous show of masses of curly tendrils. This one is planted in a wire basket but stands in the garden in full sun.

Hail damage on my Pleiospilos compactus

Not benefiting from the rain so much, and especially the hail we had, is Pleiospilos compactus. As soon as the flowers get wet, they shrivel and die almost immediately.

Seemingly unaffected by the lots of rain and hail, are both my Euphorbia horrid and Pleiospilos nelli on the left. In fact, they both seem to be loving it! But all the pots do have excellent drainage, which contributes to their healthy looks.

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