Spiny Madagascar succulent which will grow to the height of a tree, roughly like a telephone pole with occasional branches. This genus, mostly from the southwestern spiny forest, behaves like the New World ocotillos (Fouquieria spp.). Both have deciduous leaves, spiny whip-like stems, and showy flowers on the end of those stems.

In cultivation this Alluaudia may or may not enter winter dormancy (spines near the tips are greenish and rubbery soft during active growth), depending on conditions. When in active growth, water it like a tree, not a cactus. Seriously underpotting will retard growth several fold. Provide excellent drainage and repot in spring or when new growth is evident. May be forced to branch by beheading. Cuttings can be easily rooted.

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