Madagascar Ocotillo

alluaudia procera

Also known as: ["Madagascar Fencing Cactus","Madagascar Candelabra"]

Family: Didiereaceae Genus: Alluaudia Category: Succulents & Cacti

Overview

A tall, spiny succulent tree native to Madagascar, known for its columnar stems and small leaves that drop during drought.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Didiereaceae
Genus: Alluaudia
Botanical Name: Alluaudia procera

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Succulents & Cacti
  • Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor in well-drained soil
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining
  • Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually or as needed to remove dead stems or control size
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate (remove up to one-third of growth if necessary)
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours per day. Can tolerate full sun, but acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent sunburn.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun slowly over 1–2 weeks; protect from intense midday sun in summer; place in a south-facing window indoors.

Warning Signs: Wilting despite moist soil (root rot), yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage), or stunted growth (nutrient deficiency or compacted soil).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; avoid shaded areas; provide full sun outdoors.

Watering

every 7–14 days during growing season, reduce to monthly in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; reduce watering in winter dormancy.

Soil

fast-draining cactus mix

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)

Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy, water-retentive mixes; use pots with drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures between 70–85°F (21–29°C). Can tolerate brief periods down to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.

Keep away from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth; protect from extreme heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth, none in winter

Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Select a healthy stem.
  2. Cut below a node.
  3. Let the cutting callus for 1–2 days.
  4. Dip in rooting hormone.
  5. Plant in medium.
  6. Keep moist and warm.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing

Environment

Warm (70–80°F), high humidity (60–70%), and bright indirect light

Medium

Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio)

Hormone

Recommended to use rooting hormone powder for faster rooting

Timeline

Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix

Quick Tips

Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; use sterile tools to prevent disease.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut stems just above a node or leaf junction; avoid cutting into old, woody growth

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems. Best done in spring before active growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol)

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune in spring; remove dead/damaged stems; shape as desired; allow cuts to heal.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the growing season begins

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter)

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water sparingly after repotting; place in bright light.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency by season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom of the pot. Ensure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to deliver water directly to the soil, avoiding the stem.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply during the growing season (spring and summer), allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter, providing only occasional moisture to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or soft stems in cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or fungal infections. Prolonged cold may lead to leaf drop or death.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause dehydration, leaf scorch, or wilting. May also lead to pest infestations.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate watering.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Do not fertilize in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Alluaudia procera may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or root rot, often signaling stress or poor growing conditions.

Wilting in Alluaudia procera can result from water stress, either due to underwatering or overwatering, disrupting the plant's ability to maintain turgor pressure.

Leaf spots on Alluaudia procera are not commonly reported, but could indicate fungal or bacterial infections if observed, potentially affecting photosynthesis and plant health.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Alluaudia procera is commonly caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to decay and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Alluaudia procera is not known to contain toxic compounds harmful to cats. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to mechanical irritation from thorns.

⚠️ Symptoms:
mild vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets to prevent ingestion of thorns; no toxic effects are expected from the plant material.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Alluaudia procera is not known to contain toxic compounds harmful to dogs. Ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset due to mechanical irritation from thorns.

⚠️ Symptoms:
mild vomiting diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
all parts
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets to prevent ingestion of thorns; no toxic effects are expected from the plant material.
Humans
Non-toxic

The thorns of Alluaudia procera may cause mechanical injury upon contact, but the plant does not produce any known toxic compounds harmful to humans.

⚠️ Symptoms:
minor skin irritation prickling sensation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
thorns
⚡ Toxic If:

if touched

Handle with care to avoid physical injury from thorns; no toxic effects are expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I water Alluaudia procera?

A: Water sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering significantly in winter.

Q: Does Alluaudia procera flower?

A: Yes, it produces small, white or pinkish flowers at the tips of its stems during the growing season.

Q: Can Alluaudia procera be grown indoors?

A: It can be grown indoors in bright, direct sunlight, but it typically thrives better outdoors in warm, arid climates.

Quick Reference
Family: Didiereaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–14 days during growi
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant