Pachypodium rosulatum subsp. cactipes is a subspecies native to Madagascar, occurring in dry, rocky slopes and open scrubland where it receives intense sunlight and grows in sharply draining soils. It stores water in its swollen, bottle-shaped caudex, an adaptation to the region’s pronounced dry season.
From the caudex, thick, spiny stems branch and produce rosettes of narrow, lance-shaped leaves during the active growing season. The foliage is shed during winter dormancy, leaving the bare, thorn-covered branches exposed. The spines act as a deterrent to browsing animals in its native habitat.
In late spring to summer, mature plants produce tall flower stalks topped with bright yellow, funnel-shaped blooms. These are insect-pollinated and stand well above the foliage, creating a seasonal contrast to the plant’s sculptural form.
Care Tips:
Light: Full sun to very bright light for healthy growth and flowering.
Water: Water thoroughly when the soil is dry during the growing season; keep almost dry during dormancy.
Humidity: Low humidity is preferred.
Media: Use a very free-draining cactus and succulent mix with coarse sand or grit.
Fertiliser: Feed monthly in the growing season with a diluted, low-nitrogen fertiliser.
Temperature: Maintain above 15 °C; protect from frost.
Repotting: Repot only when required, minimising disturbance to the caudex and roots.
Additional Notes:
Known to be toxic
Shipping Schedule and Biosecurity Information
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Dispatch & Shipping Information
Non-Biosecurity States (QLD, NSW, ACT, VIC, SA): We now offer two dispatches per week for these regions:
Tuesday Dispatch: Orders placed by Sunday 11:59 PM AEST.
Friday Dispatch: Orders placed by Wednesday 11:59 PM AEST. Orders placed after these cut-offs will be dispatched on the next available day.
Biosecurity States (WA, NT, TAS): These orders require mandatory biosecurity treatment (PHC) and follow a specific weekly schedule:
Cut-off: Orders must be placed by Thursday 11:59 PM AEST.
Dispatch Day: Orders are processed over the weekend and dispatched on Tuesday.
Plant Health Certification (PHC) Fees:
$20 fee applies to WA orders.
$10 fee applies to NT and TAS orders. This fee is per order (not per plant) and is included in your shipping costat checkout.
Important Note: We operate independently from Collectors Corner. For any enquiries, please refer to our contact page
