Family: Apocynaceae

Mostly native to Madagascar, these upright, perennial succulents range in size from low-growing forms to trees up to 10 m (33 ft) tall. All have the characteristic swollen stems and are very fleshy. Most have spines. The leathery leaves are arranged spirally on the stems. The white, yellow or red flowers are borne at the ends of the stems, sometimes before the leaves appear. These plants are usually cultivated by the specialist grower or collector.

Species

P. lamerei, Madagascar palm, can grow eventually to about 6 m (20 ft). It is, of course, not a palm but its appearance may give that impression. It should reach flowering size of about 1 m (3 ft) after 10 years or so. The swollen trunk is gray-brown and covered in sharp spines. The very fragrant, white flowers, with gold throats, resemble those of frangipani. They appear from midsummer through to early autumn.

P. namaquanum, ghost man, has a thick, fleshy stem, to 3 m (10 ft) high, and covered in thorns. The narrow, wavy leaves, about 12 cm (5 in) long, form tufts at the top of the trunk. This species produces many purple-red flowers, striped yellow inside.

P. succulentum, from South Africa's Cape Province, is a shrub-like succulent, with sturdy, very thorny branches and slightly hairy leaves. The small flowers range in colour from pink to crimson, sometimes with red stripes.

Cultivation

Outside the tropics, grow in a warm greenhouse or conservatory in pots of cactus compost. Give maximum light. Water in moderation when in growth and keep dry in winter. Propagate from seed in spring, germinated at 21 °C (70°F).

Climate

Tropical only.