Scientific Name:

Pachypodium succulentum

Common name:

Family:

Apocynaceae

Sub-Family:

Apocynoideae

Tribe:

Malouetieae

Genus:

Pachypodium

Origin:

South Africa

Hardiness Zone:

13b

9b

ABout the PLant

The Pachypodium succulentum is a unique and eye-catching succulent native to the African continent. It has an unmistakable shape, with its thick, fleshy trunk topped by a crown of spiky leaves. The trunk can grow up to two meters tall and is covered in small thorns that help protect it from predators. Its leaves are bright green and arranged in a rosette pattern around the top of the trunk. The Pachypodium succulentum produces stunning white flowers that bloom in the summer months. These flowers have five petals and are highly fragrant, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The flowers give way to small fruits that contain seeds which can be used for propagation or simply enjoyed as a snack! Caring for this succulent is relatively easy; it prefers well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight but will tolerate some shade. Watering should be done sparingly, as too much water can cause root rot or other issues. Additionally, pruning should be done regularly to keep the plant looking its best. This unique species has been around for centuries, with evidence of its use in traditional African medicine dating back hundreds of years. Today, it remains popular among gardeners who appreciate its striking appearance and ease of care. With proper care, the Pachypodium succulentum can bring life and beauty to any space!

The Pachypodium succulentum succulent requires bright indirect light for most of the day, with some direct light in the morning or late afternoon. It can tolerate medium light levels, but low light is not recommended. This succulent needs plenty of sunlight to thrive and will do best when placed near a window that receives at least 4-6 hours of bright indirect sunlight each day.

The Pachypodium succulentum succulent prefers a well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, and have good aeration. It is important to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged as this can lead to root rot. For best results, use a cactus potting mix or create your own blend of one part coarse sand and two parts loam soil.

The Pachypodium succulentum succulent requires moderate watering. Water it once every two weeks, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Make sure not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.

The ideal humidity conditions for the Pachypodium succulentum succulent are around 40-50%. This is because the plant needs a moderate amount of moisture in order to thrive, but too much can cause root rot. If you find that your humidity levels are higher than this, it's best to reduce them by using a dehumidifier or placing the plant in an area with better air circulation.