Fouquieria Columnaris

Fouquieria columnaris, the Boojum Tree, is native to the Baja California Peninsula and is one of the most iconic and bizarre plants on Earth. A tall, tapering columnar trunk—often reaching several meters to over ten meters in habitat—rises straight into the sky, studded with numerous small lateral branches that bear tiny leaves seasonally. Creamy yellow flowers appear at the apex. Growth is extremely slow and wild individuals can exceed 100 years of age. Intense direct sun and extremely porous soil are non-negotiable. Moderate watering during the growing season with significant reduction in winter is correct. Cold tolerance is reasonable. The surreal, conical silhouette sets it apart from virtually all other caudex plants, and it is an aspirational specimen for serious collectors.

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