Spiny tree from Madagascar with an unusual Seussian habit (especially if left unpruned). The most common member of this genus in cultivation. Dramatic seasonality, usually associated with summer-fall growth and winter rest. Provide regular water during growth and maybe hold back a bit during rest (but year round water in moderation works great in our mild climate). This plant is often cultivated with spiny succulents from Madagascar like the crown of thorns and the tree Pachypodiums. It is entirely compatible with the succulent lifestyle and does very well in containers (up to a certain size/age, anyway).
The common name Madagascar ocotillo references the similarities between this plant (as well as other members of its genus) and the North American ocotillos (
Fouquieria spp., especially F. splendens). Both plants produce long, narrow stems studded with fierce spines guarding the leaves; both tend to show dramatic seasonality in their growth pattern; both produce two different types of leaves: the ones associated with new growth are small and short lived, while the ones associated with older growth (the only ones you typically see unless you look closely at the tips) are larger, appear in pairs on this species, and have a sideways orientation. Drought tolerance in both groups is associated with the loss of leaves.
This plant is very easy to propagate from cuttings (time this activity for early summer) and will typically/often branch after beheading. In this way propagation can be entirely sustainable. Or selective annual pruning can be used to transform the tree-like habit to more of a spiny bush.
