This popular pachycaul succulent from the grape family may grow to 6 feet tall and 3 feet in diameter in the landscape. It is the most common member of its genus in cultivation, and does very well in containers. It displays a striking seasonal growth pattern, remaining leafless for much of the year and leafing out in the summer. The leaves are large and succulent but not particularly numerous. The stem is extra chunky and greenish white or light brown, with peeling papery bark, and may be photosynthetic. Small flowers lead to reddish grape-like berries which are inedible to humans. From an arid summer rainfall region of Namibia.

This plant enjoys lot of sun in cultivation and regular water during active growth in summer, with less frequent water during its leafless phase. It tolerates winter rainfall in mild Mediterranean climates if provided excellent drainage, and can be grown in the ground in southern California. Often grown to size in relatively large pots and then staged for display in relatively small, shallow bonsai pots.

Reply to this comment