Caudiciform Succulent Care Instructions

Caudiciform succulents are a breed apart. Unlike cacti and other succulents, which retain precious moisture by means of their fleshy stems or leaves, caudiciforms have upper stems and foliage that have no special ability to store water. Instead, they have developed caudexes--large bulb or gourd-like swellings from which their leafy stems arise. The caudexes permit these plants to survive just as successfully as fleshy succulents in extremely arid habits. In their natural settings, caudiciform succulents often remain completely dormant, without any foliage whatsoever, for months or even years at a time.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: Direct and preferably day-long sunlight (as provided by an unobstructed southern window). Succulents will often survive for extended periods in sites with lower light levels, but they probably will not thrive or flower.

WATERING: From spring through fall, encourage leafy stem growth by watering your plant whenever its soil surface is thoroughly dry. As winter approaches, allow your plant to dry out for longer periods, until all watering is stopped from November through February. The stems and leaves will probably die back--this is part of your plant's normal life cycle. Gradually resume watering in March and April; new growth should appear within a few weeks.

FEEDING: Feed sparingly, even when the plant is growing actively. Use a cactus food once a month from April to October. Apply at half the concentration and frequency listed on the product directions.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS: Because they are desert plants, caudiciform succulents prefer low humidity and are tolerant of a wide range of temperatures. However, they cannot be overwintered outdoors.