Scientific Name — Alluaudia procera

Common Name(s) — Madagascar Ocotillo or False Ocotillo

Plant Family — Didiereaceae

Background

Alluaudia procera is a deciduous, succulent plant native to Madagascar. Tall, spikey branches, coated in small, fleshy green leaves cause this plant to closely resemble the ocotillo plant, though these plants are unrelated and belong to different families and orders.

In cooler climates, these plants are temperature-deciduous, losing leaves when temperatures drop below 40 ºF. In their native climate, Alluaudia procera is drought-deciduous, shedding leaves when water is scarce.

Growth Requirements

Sun

Madagascar ocotillos do best in full sun. If grown indoors, place yours in a spot that gets direct light, ideally a south or west-facing window.

Temperature/ Humidity 

Alluaudia procera prefers warm temperatures. It will thrive in temperatures above 60 ºF. 

These plants will tolerate some cold, down to 32 ºF. In the winter, place them indoors to protect them from extreme cold.

Water

Water Alluaudia procera thoroughly, fully saturating the soil. Allow the soil to dry out in between waterings. Water plants consistently during the growing season.

In the colder seasons, the plant will drop its leaves. At this point, cut back on watering and resume a watering schedule when the temperatures rise consistently above 70 ºF, or when leaves start to grow back.

Soil/Roots

Alluaudia plants need a very well-drained, gritty soil. Use cactus soil, or amend potting soil with pumice or sand up to 50% to improve drainage and aeration.

Flowering

Alluaudia procera will produce yellowish, white flowers in clusters at the terminal ends of branches. Flowers are borne on mature specimens that have reached at least three meters in height.

Flowers bloom in the summer months, though this plant rarely flowers in indoor cultivation. 

Fertilization

Alluaudias don’t really need fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once a month, diluted at a quarter the recommended strength. 

Propagation

Alluaudia procera can be propagated by stem cuttings taken in the spring, or from seed. This plant will also send up suckers from its roots that can be separated from the parent plant and grown independently.

Health

Diseases and Pests

Alluaudia plants are hardy specimens and not particularly prone to pests. Keep an eye out for common pests such as mealybugs and aphids, particularly during the warmer seasons. 

Likewise, Alluaudia procera is not especially vulnerable to fungal or bacterial infections. Still, it is always a good idea to check your plants and remove any unhealthy leaves or stems.

Maintenance (pruning, legginess, repotting)

Alluaudia procera does not require a great deal of maintenance. Prune away unhealthy parts. Pruning can also be done for aesthetic reasons, to encourage branching or to achieve a desired shape.

Toxicity 

Alluaudia plants are known to be toxic to pets and humans. Thorns are also very sharp and can cause damage if not handled with care.

Keep out of reach of your pets or children.

FAQs

Why is my Alluaudia procera losing its leaves?

Leaf drop is normal under two conditions:

• Cold temperatures

• Drought

In both cases, the plant loses leaves to conserve energy. If your plant remains in moderate temperatures and is watered properly, it may lose fewer leaves, but some winter loss may still occur.

How can I get my Alluaudia procera to bloom?

Alluaudia procera often will not bloom indoors, but your outside plant may develop flowers. Water it consistently, and give it full sun. Just keep in mind, your Alluaudia procera must get quite tall to flower, reaching 3 meters or more.

If I want to keep my Alluaudia procera small, can I prune it?

Absolutely. You can control the size and shape of an Alluaudia procera by removing unwanted growth. Be extremely careful when doing so, as the plant’s thorns are very sharp!