Pedilanthus macrocarpus
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A Pedilanthus macrocarpus is a nice vertical plant of medium height for cactus, succulent and xeriscape gardens. It is also an impressive plant in an attractive container or when used as a striking vertical accent along a wall. ThePedilanthus macrocarpus plant is deer resistant.
long-stemmed Euphorbia
Pedilanthus macrocarpus is an unusual succulent with thick stems and tiny, inconspicuous leaves (somewhat similar to a single long-stemmed Euphorbia tirucalli). It is some what smaller than Pedilathus bractaceous with less showy flowers and has no leaves to detract from its vertical form. It slowly spreads into a 3′-5′ clump with new stems branching off old ones just below the soil level. In full sun the stems are largely vertical but in shade they may arch or bend under their own weight. The stems are coated in a vegetable wax called Candelilla –the same coating obtained from a similar plant has been used in cosmetics, chewing gum, polishes, food coatings and dyes. It provides the plant with extra drought tolerance and protection from the elements.
From summer to fall the Pedilnthus macrocarpus has orange-red slipper-shaped flowers called cyathia. Hummingbirds really love the taste of the nectar filled blooms.
When planted in full desert sun the stems may turn yellow.
Most plants in the Euphorbiaceae family have sap which can irritate some people’s skin. Warning: do not get sap in eyes.
Horticultural Data
Description | Horticultural Data | Shipping & Availability | Top
Names and Synonyms: Euphorbia lomelii
Common Names: Slipper Plant, Lady’s Slipper, Candelilla, Gallito
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Origin: The Sonoran desert of northwestern Mexico
Size Label: 5-gallon
Height: 3-5′
Width: 3-5′
Cold Tolerance: 20 to 25°F, -6.7 to -3.9°C
Heat Tolerance: Extreme heat tolerance.
Light Requirement: Full sun to very light shade and can take reflected light as well.
Water needs: Very drought tolerant but should get regular water during hot summers.
Maintenance: None
Uses: A nice vertical plant of medium height for cactus, succulent and xeriscape gardens. It is also an impressive plant in an attractive container or when used as a striking vertical accent along a wall. This plant is deer resistant.
Propagation: P. macrocarpus can be propagated from seed or stem cuttings.
Problems: None
Research Links:
http://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3236
http://fireflyforest.net/firefly/2007/03/16/slipper-plant-or-candelilla/
http://waterwhendry.blogspot.com/2007/07/pipes-and-slippers.html
Shipping & Availability
Description | Horticultural Data | Shipping & Availability | Top
There is a minimum purchase of any 4 plants for online orders. All plants shipped bare root. Other sizes may be available for pick up from our growing grounds in Fallbrook, CA. For more information, give us a call at 760-990-4762.
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