Tylecodon paniculatus

butterboom
Peeling bark adorns this natural bonsai. If water is withheld, loses leaves during summer, when flowers are held on long upright stems. Good drainage.
Tylecodon paniculatusTylecodon paniculatus
height 2–4ft
width 1–3ft
tolerates Drought, Heat, Pots, Rooftops
water
needs		 Low – Moderate
water
info		 Most tylecodon are from the deserts of Southern Africa and as such like to go totally bone dry between waterings, making them very low-maintenance. If you see your tylecodon begin to shrivel or lose firmness, your plant is likely totally dry and should be watered.

This tylecodon comes from an area with winter rainfall and is actively growing during that time, when it is forgiving of overwatering errors. During summer dormancy it should be kept extra dry and won’t tolerate overwatering. If you see the trunk shriveling, or branches shriveling and falling off you know your plant needs some water.

Remember that if kept in a small pot your plant will want more frequent watering.
hardy
to		 25F
exposure Part Shade – Full Sun
indoor
outdoor		 Outdoor
drainage In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Requires Perfect Drainage, Tolerates Sandy Soil
fertilizing All Purpose
origin W South Africa
california
native		 No
sunset
zones		 16, 17, 19–24, H2

Sunset Zones Map

Outdoor Exposure Guide

Growing Notes

Appreciates a spot with full winter sun, but won’t mind summer shade.
Cut back hard every few years to keep the trunk more stout, if desired.
Does not tolerate heavy clay soil.
Cut branches can be rooted in fall or early spring, but are not the easiest to root.

More Info

The stunning photo of this plant in habitat (with Aloe pillansii photo bombing in the background) was taken by our staff member Tyson Curtis in Namibia.