Madagascar Ocotillo
Madagascar Ocotillo (Alluaudia procera) is one unusual desert plant.
From far away, it has a strange shape with multiple stems that grow upwards, almost looking like a whimsical sea creature. From up close, you can see the long, thin stems covered with countless, tiny, fleshy green leaves and sharp white spines.
Although it looks similar to the ocotillo that is native to the Southwest (Fouquieria spendens), they are not related. What is similar, however, is their minimal maintenance and sense of awe that they bring to the landscape.
Botanical name: Alluaudia procera
Other names: African Ocotillo, False Ocotillo
Madagasccar Ocotillo (Alluaudia procera) for sale at our nursery
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Madagascar Ocotillo Appearance
Madagascar Ocotillo, when young, is a shrub with long, thin stems that grow mostly upright.
When very mature, Madagascar Ocotillo can reach 20+ feet tall in our landscape (50+ feet tall in its native habitat), and grows a thick, main stem, resembling a tree.
The flowers are yellow, and bloom at the tip of the stems.
When dormant, whether due to a long dry spell or wintertime, the plant will shed its leaves. However, these leaves will re-appear as it transitions back to the growing stage.
Madagascar Ocotillo Landscaping Tips
Madagascar Ocotillo is one of our most heat tolerant plants. If you aren't sure what to plant in the hottest part of your yard, this one may be a good candidate!
When choosing a location for planting, keep in mind that the spines are very sharp, and that this plant grows very tall.
This succulent is fire-resistant, and can be planted strategically among other fire-resistant plants to discourage fires from spreading.
Madagascar Ocotillo has an upward-growing habit, but some stems can curve. If a more upright shape is desired, prune in late winter or early spring.
Madagascar Ocotillo Origin
South Madagascar, which is very dry and either temperate or hot throughout the year.
Detailed look at the Madagascar Ocotillo
Madagascar Ocotillo Care
Madagascar Ocotillo is one of the easiest plants to care for in Southern California.
Soil: Loose, well draining soil that is moderately fertile. Cactus or succulent soil mixes work well.
Temperature: Can withstand temperatures down to frost (frost = 32 degrees Fahrenheit) for a brief period of time.
Water: Occasional, deep watering. Allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings. Either use a moisture meter or stick your finger through the soil to gauge the moisture level. It’s better to err on the side of underwatering than overwatering.
Sun: Full sun
Madagascar Ocotillo Problems
Pests: Madagascar Ocotillo has minimal pests, which are usually scales. To remove scales, pick them off or use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Horticultural oil will kill both crawlers and adults with direct contact. Insecticidal soap is better used to target only the crawlers. Whenever using any kind of pesticide, be aware that it can damage the plant if the temperatures are in the 80s or above.
Fungal diseases from root rot.
Signs of overwatering: Drooping, squishy texture (especially an the bottom of the plant)
Signs of too little water: Shriveling, drying skin
Signs of too much sun: Burning, scarring
Signs of too little sun: Etiolation, discoloring
Madagascar Ocotillo Propagation
The easiest way to propagate the Madagascar Ocotillo would be to cut off the offsets that grow from the main plant.
You can also take and plant the seeds. The plant usually blooms once it is about 10 feet tall.
Finally, you can take stem cuttings, preferably softer and greener ones, using a blade, and plant them directly into the ground or pot.
Madagascar Ocotillo in 5 gallon pots at our nursery
FAQ
What's the difference between Madagascar Ocotillo (Alluaudia procera) and the Ocotillo (Fouquieria spendens)?
The Madagascar Ocotillo is from South Madagascar and the common Ocotillo is from the North American deserts, such as the Mohave, Sonora, the Chihuahuan. The Madagascar Ocotillo is part of the Didiereaceae family, which are spiny succulent plants from Africa, while the common ocotillo is from the Fouquieriaceae family, which are spiny plants from North America, not all of which are succulents.
The reason they resemble so much despite not being related is because they grew similar features to adapt to their similar native climates, which are arid and warm.
How much does Madagascar Ocotillo cost?
At our nursery, Madagascar Ocotillos cost $15 for a 1 gallon pot, $55 for a 5 gallon pot, $120 for a 15 gallon pot, and $240-290 for a 24” box.
Prices are subject to change. Please contact us for the most up-to-date information on pricing. We may have larger sizes available. We provide installation services locally at a separate cost.
How tall do Madagascar Ocotillos get?
It depends on the location and care it receives, but in the Palm Springs area, it can grow to more than 20 feet tall. In its native environment, it can grow to more than twice that height!
When very mature, Madagascar Ocotillo can reach 20+ feet tall in our landscape (50+ feet tall in its native habitat).
Summary
| SIZE (H X W) | 15-25 feet X 4-6 feet |
|---|---|
| FLOWER COLOR | Greenish/Yellow |
| FLOWER SEASON | Infrequent |
| EXPOSURE | Full Sun |
| WATER | Low |
| GROWTH RATE | Fast |
| HARDINESS | 25º F, USDA Zone 9 |
| PRUNING | None |