Pachypodium Succulentum

Pachypodium succulentum grows on dry, rocky terrain in the Karoo and Eastern Cape of South Africa. The majority of the caudex develops underground, with only branches visible above soil—an unusual growth habit that produces dramatically large subterranean storage organs over time. Pink flowers are charming and freely produced. As a South African species, it is considerably more cold-hardy than its Malagasy counterparts, making cultivation somewhat more manageable. Full sun and extremely porous soil are essential. Moderate watering during growth and complete winter drought are appropriate. Brief exposure to near-freezing temperatures is tolerated. The subterranean caudex development is a unique point of interest and the species serves as an accessible introduction to South African Pachypodium.

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