
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dorstenia gigas
From Socotra Island, growing into a massive bottle tree form, an ultimate rare species.
Dorstenia gigas is endemic to Socotra Island in the Arabian Sea and is one of the island's most iconic plants. True to its name (gigas = giant), it grows into a massive bottle tree form in habitat, with trunk diameters exceeding 1 meter in old specimens. The pale ivory to gray-white trunk is smooth and the plant branches at the top to support foliage. Flowers are the characteristic flat hypocrateriforms of the genus, and seeds are forcibly ejected. Growth is extremely slow and large specimens are the ultimate rarities. Full sun and extremely porous soil are essential. Restrained watering during growth and complete winter drought with indoor protection from cold are required. Protected under CITES due to Socotra's fragile endemic ecosystem, legal specimens are extraordinarily difficult to obtain, placing it among the most aspirational caudex plants imaginable.
Origin
Socotra Island, Yemen
Lifespan
50+ years
Size
30-100cm
Temperature
15〜38℃
−
Massive bottle tree form
Ultimate rare species
Socotra Island
Full sun
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Dorstenia Gigas is 15〜38℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Dorstenia Gigas is 50+ years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Dorstenia Gigas typically reaches 30-100cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Dorstenia Gigas feeds on: −. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Dorstenia Gigas varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
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