Alluaudia procera (African Ocotillo) — Spiny towers crowned with tiny emerald leaves.

This striking succulent shrub grows as upright canes lined with spines and small, bright-green leaves. Resembling the desert ocotillo of the American Southwest, it thrives in hot, dry climates and makes a bold architectural feature.

Plant Details:

• Water Needs: Very low; thrives in arid conditions

• Sun Needs: Full sun

• Soil Requirements: Sandy, rocky soils with sharp drainage

• Growing Zone: USDA Zones 9–11

• Cold Hardiness: Down to ~25°F (–4°C)

• Mature Size: 10–20 ft tall x 3–6 ft wide

• Native Origin: Madagascar

• Best Substitutes For: Ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens)

• Landscape Uses: Xeric gardens, specimen plantings, architectural accents