Pachypodium brevicaule

🌿 Pachypodium brevicaule – The Rock Mimic Succulent

Category: Rare Caudiciform Succulent
Native Region: Highlands of Madagascar
Delivery Format: Shipped bare root with care instructions

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Description:

Pachypodium brevicaule is one of the most unique and sought-after caudiciform succulents in the world. Native to the rugged, rocky terrains of Madagascar, it is famously known for its ability to mimic stones — a natural camouflage that protects it from herbivores in the wild.

This dwarf species grows extremely flat, forming a sculptural, greyish caudex with twisted, knobby stems that hug the ground like living rocks. In contrast to its rugged form, it produces beautiful bright yellow, star-shaped flowers during the growing season, offering a striking visual contrast.

It’s a collector’s dream — especially prized by bonsai growers, rare succulent lovers, and those who appreciate architectural, slow-growing plants.

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Key Features:

✔️ Low-growing, flat caudex that resembles volcanic rock
✔️ Naturally compact and ideal for container growing
✔️ Bright yellow flowers appear in spring and early summer
✔️ Very slow growing and long-lived
✔️ Easy to care for with correct watering and sun

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Care Guide :

• ☀️ Light:
  Needs bright light to full sun. Place in a spot with at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily. In very hot Indian summers (above 40°C), partial shade during peak noon can prevent stress.

• 💧 Watering:

  • During the active growing season (March to October), water thoroughly only when the soil is completely dry.

  • In the dormant period (November to February in India), reduce watering drastically. Keep the caudex dry to avoid rot. Occasional misting is optional but not necessary.

• 🌱 Soil Mix:
  Use a very fast-draining soil mix. Recommended blend: cactus mix + coarse sand + pumice or perlite. Avoid moisture-retaining components like coco peat.

• 🌡️ Climate:
  Prefers warm, dry climates. Protect from frost or temperatures below 10°C. In cold regions of India, shift to indoor sunlit spaces during winter.

• 🍂 Dormancy (India-specific):

  • Dormant Season: November to February – no growth, may shed leaves

  • Active Season: March to October – growth and flowering

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Potting Tip:

Use a shallow, wide pot to highlight the sprawling caudex. Clay or terracotta pots help maintain dryness and airflow around the roots.