About
A succulent shrub or small tree with thick, thorny stems bearing a cluster of narrow leaves near the apex, and terminal clusters of yellow-throated white flowers 10cm across in summer.
About the genus
Pachypodium are shrubby succulents, mostly with thick, prickly stems, simple leaves and funnel-shaped flowers in terminal clusters
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1A
Plant details
Plant typeCactus Succulent, Conservatory Greenhouse
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Native toMadagascar
Care notes
CultivationUnder glass, grow in standard cactus compost in full light. From late spring to early autumn, water moderately and apply a low nitrogen liquid fertiliser every 4-5 weeks. Keep dry at other times
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed at 19-24°C ( 66-75°F), or take stem-tip cuttings, in late spring
Pest resistanceVulnerable to aphids while flowering
Disease resistanceRelatively disease resistant