Slender Elephant's Foot (Pachypodium rosulatum subsp. gracilius)

Slender Elephant's Foot

Pachypodium rosulatum subsp. gracilius

Thick caudex stores desert water like a living canteen. Drought-tolerant succulent shrub; common name: Slender Elephant's Foot.

Full sun
0.5/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full direct sunlight; tolerates partial sun during extreme midday heat, but requires consistent bright light year-round
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Watering Water deeply only when the entire soil volume is completely dry; avoid overwatering to prevent caudex and root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm, arid conditions; tolerates brief drops to 10°C, but is highly sensitive to frost
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow, linear, green leaves clustered at stem tips, deciduous in dry season
  • Stem: Slender, spiny stems growing from a swollen, fleshy caudex
  • Flower: Fragrant, white to pale pink funnel-shaped blooms with yellow throats
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Care Guide

Watering

Water once every 10-14 days when soil is fully dry

Fertilization

Diluted cactus fertilizer once monthly. Use low-nitrogen, high-potassium fertilizer to support healthy caudex development

Eggshell powder topdressing:Sprinkle a thin layer of crushed, baked eggshells on the soil surface; avoid mixing into the root zone to prevent unintended pH elevation
Pruning
  • Remove dead, yellowed leaves to maintain airflow and tidy appearance
  • Trim overgrown stems in early spring to preserve a compact, balanced form
  • Cut back damaged spiny stems to promote healthy new growth from the caudex
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Toxic due to cardiac glycosides; may cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or irregular heartbeat

Humans: Sap and plant material may cause oral irritation and mild stomach upset if ingested

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental succulent for rock gardens, container cultivation, or xeriscape landscapes