About
Kedrostis africana, the baboon's cucumber, is a succulent perennial forming a large, swollen, potato-like caudex to 50 cm across, from which a slender, tendril-climbing annual vine arises each spring, bearing deeply lobed, palmate-like leaves. A striking, botanical curiosity for a warm, sunny greenhouse.
About the genus
Kedrostis are tendril-climbing or trailing succulents from tropical Africa and Asia with a swollen, tuberous caudex, palmately divided leaves and small, green, yellow, white or cream flowers. Grown as architectural curiosities in warm, sunny greenhouses.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent
HabitClimbing
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.5-1 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesHouseplants
Native toSouthern Africa
Care notes
CultivationGrow in cactus compost in full light with protection from hot summer sun. Water moderately in the growing season and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser at half strength monthly; keep almost dry in winter. See houseplant cacti and succulent cultivation for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed or cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to rots if overwatered