Common Name: alluaudia
Type: Deciduous shrub
Family: Didiereaceae
Native Range: Southern Madagascar
Zone: 9 to 11
Height: 5.00 to 10.00 feet
Spread: 4.00 to 2.00 feet
Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
Bloom Description: White, Pink, Green
Sun: Full sun to part shade
Water: Dry to medium
Maintenance: Medium
Other: Thorns
Tolerate: Drought, Dry Soil
Culture
Best grown in evenly moist to dry, sandy loams in full sun to partial shade. Water somewhat regularly during the growing season but greatly reduce watering during winter dormancy. Tolerant of some drought once established. Propagate using stem cuttings. Hardy in Zones 9b(25°F)-11.
Noteworthy Characteristics
Alluaudia dumosa is a slow-growing, succulent tree or large shrub native to the semi-arid scrubland and thorn forests of southern Madagascar. Mature plants can reach up to 25' tall and 15' wide in the wild, but may reach 10' tall and 4' wide in cultivation. The mostly leafless, cylindrical, elongated, grey-green stems are upright to arching and sparsely covered in small spines. Small clusters of creamy white flowers bloom seasonally from the branches. These plants are dioeceous meaning that male and female flowers occur on separate individuals.
Genus name honors French explorer Charles A. Alluand (b. 1861).
The specific epithet dumosa means "shrubby", in reference to the growth habit of this species.
Problems
No major pest or disease problems of note. Water-logged or poorly drained soil will lead to root or stem rot.
Uses
A specimen or accent plant for xeriscaping, desert gardens, or rock gardens. Can be grown in a pot as a houseplant.