Pachypodium gracilius

Pachypodium gracilius is a highly sought-after caudiciform succulent from Madagascar, prized for its thick, bottle-shaped trunk, sculptural form, and bright yellow flowers. This drought-tolerant species is a favorite among collectors for its bonsai potential, slow-growing nature, and striking appearance.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Pachypodium gracilius
• Common Names: Gracilius Pachypodium, Madagascar Bottle Tree
• Family: Apocynaceae
• Native Region: Madagascar
• Growth Habit: Small succulent tree with a swollen caudex
• Height: 30–60 cm (1–2 feet), compact in containers
• Trunk: Thick, bottle-shaped, silvery-gray with spiny branches
• Leaves: Narrow, dark green, forming a rosette at branch tips
• Flowers: Bright yellow, trumpet-shaped, blooming in warm seasons
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Season: Active growth in warm months, dormancy in cooler months

Growing Conditions:

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-draining, sandy, or rocky soil
• Watering Needs: Low; drought-tolerant, requiring minimal watering
• Temperature Tolerance: Prefers warm climates; not frost-hardy
• Humidity: Prefers low humidity; avoid excessive moisture
• Propagation: Grown from seeds or cuttings

Landscaping & Uses:

• Ideal for succulent gardens, rockeries, and arid landscapes
• Perfect for bonsai cultivation and container gardening
• Highly prized by collectors for its rare availability and sculptural form
• Low-maintenance and drought-resistant, making it great for dry regions
• Unique, exotic addition to caudiciform and succulent collections