Avonia is a genus of around 14 accepted species in the family Portulacaceae. Avonia is a South African endemic genus. Most have scaly formations on their leaves. Generally they dont grow much taller than 8cm. Flowers appear in the summer months and may be white, pink or purple, opening during the heat of the day and closing again in the evening. Most Avonia species favour bright indirect light and rich, well-drained soil. The soil should be allowed to drain completely between watering and should be fortified with enrichments in the spring to encourage the plant to emerge fully from winter semi-dormancy. When grown in small pots their height can be controlled and they make interesting looking natural bonsai. They are closely related to Anacampseros and were previously included in that genus. Species in the Avonia genus are collected by succulent enthusiasts the world over. They are well suited to pot culture and grow just as well on windowsills if given sufficient ventilation.

Avonia alstonii is a caudiciform that forms a caudex up to 6 cm in diameter with numerous 2 cm long branches. The leaves are presented in rows and are covered with silvery stipules. The beautiful, relatively large, flowers are mostly white but can sometimes be pink. Avonia alstonii is a dwarf perennial caudiciform plant with a large, turnip-shaped rootstock buried to its rim, surmounted with myriads of silvery white stems, flush with the ground. In cultivation the plants may be raised to expose the caudex, giving it an other-worldly appearance. The flowers are delicately shaded with pale pink and the largest of the Avonia section. It is considered the showiest of all Avonias.