About
Dendrosicyos socotrana, the cucumber tree, is an extraordinary succulent tree endemic to Socotra island, with a massively swollen, water-storing trunk topped by a crown of lobed, cucumber-family leaves. One of the most bizarre and unusual trees in the world. A remarkable collector's plant for a hot, dry, heated greenhouse.
About the genus
Dendrosicyos is a monotypic genus in the cucumber family (Cucurbitaceae), endemic to Socotra island in the Arabian Sea. The single species, D. socotrana, is a remarkable succulent tree with a bottle-shaped, water-storing trunk. A specialist collector's plant for a heated, very dry greenhouse.
Plant details
Suggested usesBorders, containers, naturalising in grass.
Care notes
CultivationPlant at appropriate depth in well-drained soil.
PruningAllow foliage to die back naturally after flowering.
PropagationDivide offsets or bulbils when dormant.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free. Monitor for common garden pests.
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-resistant. Ensure good air circulation.