Pachypodium Densiflorum 130mm

Pachypodium densiflorum is a fascinating succulent plant native to Madagascar. It's known for its distinctive, swollen trunk (caudex) and beautiful, often fragrant flowers. Here's a detailed look at this unique plant: 

Pachypodium densiflorum

• Common Names: Madagascar Star, Kudu Lily (though this name is sometimes applied to other Pachypodium species)
• Family: Apocynaceae (Dogbane family)    

Description:

• Caudex: The most striking feature of Pachypodium densiflorum is its large, swollen, bottle-shaped caudex. This serves as a water storage organ, allowing the plant to survive in dry conditions. The caudex is typically gray or brownish and covered in small tubercles (bumps) from which spines emerge.
• Stems: From the top of the caudex, slender, branching stems grow. These stems can be upright or sprawling and are also armed with spines.   
• Leaves: The leaves are small, deciduous (shed seasonally), and appear along the stems. They are usually lance-shaped or oval and can be green or grayish-green.
• Flowers: Pachypodium densiflorum produces beautiful, star-shaped flowers that are usually white or pale yellow with a darker throat (the center of the flower). The flowers are often fragrant and appear in clusters at the tips of the stems. They typically bloom in spring or summer, depending on the growing conditions.   
• Spines: The plant is armed with sharp spines that grow from the tubercles on the caudex and stems. These spines serve as a defense mechanism against herbivores.   

Growth:

Pachypodium densiflorum is a slow-growing plant. It can take many years for a young plant to develop a large caudex. In its native habitat, it can eventually form a small, shrubby tree, but it is typically much smaller in cultivation, especially when grown in containers.   

Cultivation and Care:

• Light: Pachypodium densiflorum prefers bright, direct sunlight.
• Watering: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering is the most common cause of problems for Pachypodium species, as it can lead to root rot. Reduce watering significantly during the dormant season (usually winter).
• Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix specifically formulated for cacti and succulents. A mix of standard potting soil with added perlite or pumice is often recommended.   
• Temperature: Pachypodium densiflorum prefers warm temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. It should be protected from freezing conditions.   
• Fertilizing: Fertilizing is generally not necessary, but a light feeding with a diluted balanced fertilizer during the growing season can be beneficial.

Uses:

• Ornamental Plant: Pachypodium densiflorum is primarily grown as an ornamental plant for its unique caudex and beautiful flowers. It is a popular choice for succulent collectors and enthusiasts.
• Container Plant: It is well-suited for container gardening, making it possible to grow it even in climates where it is not hardy outdoors.

The first three photos serves a display purpose only. The succulent plant housed in the red pot comes in a 130mm diameter container. While the image provides a representative depiction of what you will receive, but may vary slightly because no two succulents are the same.