Madagascar ocotillo - Alluaudia procera (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Madagascar ocotillo

Also known as: Arbre pieuvre

Madagascar ocotillo (Alluaudia procera) is a most distinctive succulent that rewards ornamental growers with leathery leaves and long spines that protrude from its stem. It is a tropical species, so in cooler climates, it is most often grown as a houseplant. Madagascar ocotillo looks strikingly similar to Ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens), hence the name, but they are actually completely unrelated species.

Scientific classification

Species

Madagascar ocotillo (Alluaudia procera)

Pinks, cacti, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Succulent

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

7 m

Plant Height

2 m

Spread

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Madagascar ocotillo

Distribution of Madagascar ocotillo

Distribution Map

Madagascar ocotillo is indigenous to the arid ecosystems of the island continent of Madagascar. Outside its native range, madagascar ocotillo is cultivated in various regions with suitable dry climates. This succulent has adapted to both its natural habitat and as an introduced species in semi-arid areas across major continents.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Dry forest and thickets at elevations from 100 - 450 metres.

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Quickly Identify Madagascar ocotillo

Stout, whitish-gray upright stems with occasional pendulous forking.

Smooth, succulent oval leaves in pairs attached directly to trunk.

Yellowish white flowers in dense clusters at branch tips, dioecious.

One-seeded nut fruit, top broadening to narrow base, 0.08-0.12 inches long.

Distinctive white trunk with pronounced conical spines, single or branched structure.

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Care Guide for Madagascar ocotillo

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 41 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Succulent & Cactus Soil

Soil Type

Water: Madagascar ocotillo, native to Madagascar's arid environments, thrives with minimal moisture and exhibits high drought tolerance. It requires watering every three weeks and benefits from well-draining soil. Reduced watering during dormancy prevents root rot and promotes vitality.

Fertilize: To care for madagascar ocotillo, use a balanced 10-10-10 succulents and cacti fertilizer quarterly. Apply during spring and summer for growth, but withhold during winter. Dilute to half-strength, apply to moist soil, and avoid fertilizing a thirsty madagascar ocotillo to prevent shock.

Propagation: To propagate madagascar ocotillo, take healthy stem cuttings with growth nodes. Allow them to callous for a few days before planting in well-draining soil. Keep moderately moist and in bright, indirect light. Patience is essential as rooting may take time.

Repotting: Madagascar ocotillo requires repotting every 2-3 years to support healthy growth. Best done in spring, use a larger pot with well-draining soil to prevent root rot. After repotting, ensure bright light and minimal watering until new growth appears, signaling recovery.

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