Persian Carpet Flower (Edithcolea grandis)

Persian Carpet Flower

Edithcolea grandis

Its star-shaped blooms mimic intricate carpet weaves, a desert gem with velvety texture. Succulent perennial; common name: Persian Carpet Flower.

Full sun
1/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial sun; tolerate intense desert sunlight, avoid prolonged midday summer sun in hot climates to prevent sunscald
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Watering Allow soil to fully dry between waterings; reduce frequency significantly in winter dormancy
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Temperature Thrives in warm to hot temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C to prevent stem rot
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Reduced to small, scale-like structures along trailing stems; non-photosynthetic
  • Flower: Star-shaped, 8–12 cm wide, velvety brown-purple with cream markings and central furrow
  • Stem: Succulent, green to pale brown, trailing or creeping along soil surface
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Care Guide

Watering

Water thoroughly when soil is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted succulent fertilizer once every 2 months. Cease fertilization in winter during dormancy to avoid nutrient buildup

Eggshell powder topdressing:Crush dried eggshells into fine powder; sprinkle lightly on soil surface; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent irritation
Pruning
  • Trim dead or withered stems to maintain tidy growth and improve airflow
  • Remove spent flower heads to redirect energy to new stem and root growth
  • Cut back overgrown trailing stems in early spring to encourage bushier, more compact growth
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No known toxicity to cats

Humans: No known toxic effects to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens, container displays, or indoor succulent collections