Exhibition “Cacti and Super-Succulents – Living Stones”

 At the heart of the exhibition – super-succulents, also known as “living stones”. These belong to the Aizoaceae/Mesembryanthemaceae family. Most of these plants are native to the Karoo region of South Africa, where they have evolved over millions of years to survive harsh desert conditions: intense sunlight, drought, heat, salty soils, and sandstorms.

Currently, the Aizoaceae family includes 116 genera and over 1,800 species. Their appearance is remarkably diverse—some resemble pebbles, while others have small, thick leaves that help collect moisture from dew or rare rainfall. In Latvia, suitable genera for seasonal outdoor cultivation include Drosanthemum, Lamparanthus, and Mesembryanthemum. For indoor, greenhouse, or winter garden collections, popular genera include Aloinopsis, Argyroderma, Conophytum, Lithops, Titanopsis, and others.

The exhibition will also feature various cacti, Adenium (commonly known as “Desert Roses”), and other succulents from society members’ collections. Visitors will have the chance to ask questions about succulent cultivation and purchase plants in small quantities.

On September 27 at 12:00, a special consultation will be held at the exhibition venue with collectors, focusing on the care of Lithops and other succulents.

Admission to the exhibition and participation in events is included with a ticket to the Botanical Garden of the University of Latvia.