Didierea madagascariensis Baill

Family

Didiereaceae

Origin

South Madagascar

Description

Didierea madagascariensis is a spiny, succulent thorn-bush tree which can reach 4 to 6 meters,columnar at first, later branching. . These hardy drought-resistant plants appear as a spine-encrusted mass of branches. The thin, grayish-green strip-like, dry deciduous leaves are well protected between the large, branched spines. The flowers are inconspicuous and male and female flowers appear on separate plants.

Environment

Use a very draining but rich soil, and not too much sun. Octopus tree can take a good deal of water during active growth and should be watered only when not dormant. Keep mostly dry during its long dormancy in winter

Landscape Use

A very unusual plant for the dry tropical or warm temperate garden.