Botanical Name: Pachypodium rosulatum subsp. cactipes
Common Name: Elephant Foot Plant, Madagascar Bottle Trunk Tree
Family: Apocynaceae
€9.07
Pachypodium rosulatum subsp. cactipes is a distinctive caudiciform succulent endemic to Madagascar, prized for its swollen, bottle-shaped trunk that serves as a water reservoir. The thick, grey to silver trunk is often spiny and tapers upward to a crown of narrow, glossy green leaves that are shed during periods of drought. Bright yellow, five-petaled flowers appear seasonally near the stem tips, providing a striking contrast to the sculptural caudex.
This slow-growing species typically remains compact, making it well suited for container cultivation. It thrives in full sun to bright light and requires sharply drained, mineral-rich soil. Water sparingly, especially during dormancy, as overwatering can lead to rot. Highly drought-tolerant and heat-loving, it is ideal for arid-climate gardens, rockeries, or as a collector’s specimen, but must be protected from frost.
Pachypodium (English)
Pachypodium seeds generally germinate within 30 to 60 days when provided with proper conditions.
Use a high quality substrate that is light, porous and free from pathogens, specifically formulated for seed germination. These particular seeds require exposure to light for successful germination and should therefore be placed on the surface of the substrate with only a minimal covering.
For optimal results, we recommend using plastic containers with transparent lids placed in brightly lit locations that receive indirect sunlight. Maintain consistent moisture levels and temperatures between 28ºC and 35ºC. The transparent cover will help preserve stable humidity conditions.
It is essential to completely avoid direct sunlight exposure. If additional lighting is required, artificial sources such as standard fluorescent or LED lamps may be used.
The containers should be opened every two or three days to monitor moisture levels and check for germinated seeds. This regular air exchange also helps prevent fungal growth.
Alternative germination methods include using damp paper towels or moist river sand as the growing medium.
Once germination occurs, carefully transfer the seedlings to individual containers, taking great care not to damage the delicate root systems. Allow the young plants to acclimate for six to eight weeks before transplanting them into their permanent pots.
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.