Alluaudia procera, commonly called the Madagascar Ocotillo, is a succulent tree endemic to southern Madagascar. It is characteristic of the island’s spiny forest habitats, where it can reach 10–15 m in height. The species produces tall, upright, grey-green stems covered with pairs of sharp spines arranged opposite one another. Between these spines, small oval leaves emerge during the growing season, aiding photosynthesis before being shed in the dry season to conserve water. This deciduous adaptation, together with the spiny defences, allows the plant to survive in Madagascar’s harsh, arid environment. In cultivation, its architectural form and resilience make it an unusual collector’s specimen.
Care Tips
Light: Requires full sun to very bright light for strong, upright growth.
Water: Water moderately in the growing season, allowing the soil to dry between waterings; keep drier in winter dormancy.
Media: Use a free-draining, sandy-gritty succulent mix to avoid waterlogging.
Fertiliser: Apply a diluted balanced fertiliser occasionally during the warm growing months.
Temperature: Prefers warm conditions; protect from frost and temperatures below 10 °C.
Repotting: Repot as required into a deeper container to support upright stems; stake young plants if needed.
Shipping and Biosecurity Information
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Dispatch:
Orders are dispatched on a rolling basis.
Most orders ship within 3–5 business days, depending on biosecurity processing, weather, and order size.
Express Shipping speeds up transit after dispatch only.
Biosecurity Fees:
WA & TAS: $20 per order
NT: $10 per order
Fees are included at checkout and cover mandatory plant health certification.
Important:
A physical address is required for certification (delivery to PO Boxes is still allowed).
Collectors Online operates independently from Collectors Corner.
