Pachypodium rosulatum cactipes Seeds - Madagascan Caudiciform Succulent - Combined Ship - NEW

Pachypodium is a genus of caudiciform succulents placed in the Apocynaceae family. Many of the species produce spectacular flowers. They exhibit a wide range of bizarre growth forms, from bottle-, cigar- or candelabrum-shaped trees to dwarf plants with very short stalks. Sizes range from a few centimetres above the soil to heights of more than 8 m. In southern Africa, the mystical elephant's trunk or halfmens (Pachypodium namaquanum) is probably the best known and rarest member of the genus. Pachypodium is closely related to Adenium but distinguished from it in that the stipules at the base of the leaves are developed into long rigid spines.

Pachypodiums are characteristically plants of hotter, drier regions of southern Africa and Madagascar where they reach maximum diversity in terms of numbers of species. Most species grow well in pots and rockeries. Larger species like Pachypodium geayi and Pachypodium lamerei make excellent landscaping plants too.

Pachypodium rosulatum cactipes may merely represent a southerly form of the Pachypodium rosulatum complex but for now it is preferred to recognize it as a distinct species until further research clarifies its affinities. Its rich green glossy foliage, showy yellow flowers and ease of culture make it one of the more rewarding of the genus. It is usually found in sunny positions on stony places where they are associated with other xerophytic plants. This species is cold hardy and can tolerate sub-zero temperatures if kept dry during winter. They are naturally well adapted to the hot and dry environment in which they grow. The succulent stems act as water stores and enable the plants to survive the harshest conditions. The thick tuberous underground stems also help the plants to survive long periods without water. They can therefore withstand intense heat and long periods of drought.