This unusual succulent shrub is native to the dry forests of southern Madagascar. Younger plants form a cluster of smaller stems, but after a few years a large central stem with branches develops. The remaining young stems then die off. The stems can grow up to 15 metres tall with a diameter of 50 cm, making them a lot larger than the ocotillo in the Sonoran desert in the US after which this species is named.
The species is adapted to the dry conditions of southern Madagascar, making it drought-tolerant and developing sharp, protective spines to deter (thirsty) herbivores. Its leaves are deciduous, allowing them to fall off during the dry season to conserve moisture. They quickly regrow when rain has fallen. Under the right conditions, mature plants produce small clusters of white or pale green flowers that can attract pollinators such as bees.
The plant does well in permeable, sandy or rocky soil and needs full sun to partial shade. When grown as a houseplant, the size of the plant remains limited.
Sowing description: Sow the seeds on sowing soil without covering them with soil. Cover with foil or glass and keep the soil constantly slightly moist. Germination after a few weeks to months at a temperature of about 22-25 degrees Celsius.
