Alluaudia procera

This amazing species comes from Madagascar. Each year plants will lose all leaves but will regrow them in the spring along all stems.

They will eventually form tall upright stems from 2 to 5 metres tall or can be cut back to keep compact in pots. Growth is extremely slow and averages 10cm per year. Offsets will appear from the base on mature plants.

Slow growing but very hardy, being able to survive well in most climates.

Position - full sun or partial shade. Indoors only in very well-lit positions. Great in gardens in well drained areas or in pots. Will tolerate light frosts.

Watering - can be watered over the warmer months and seldom if not at all in winter. Plants will survive without water for many months but will do better if watered all year.

Feeding - 25% of recommended dosage monthly in growing period.

The less fertiliser, the better the shape of the plant. Fertilisers high in nitrogen can produce larger plants with less colour.

Repotting - can be left to overgrow their pots or repotted in the warmer months in almost any well drained potting mix.

Caution - Harmful if eaten. Skin & eye irritant. Handle carefully to avoid exposure to white milk from damaged plants. Wash hands after handling.