Pachypodium saundersii, also known as the Star of the Lundi or Kudu Lily, is a striking and sought-after succulent renowned for its unique bottle-shaped trunk and beautiful, albeit fleeting, white flowers. This fascinating plant from the Apocynaceae family captures the attention of succulent enthusiasts with its sculptural form and delicate floral display, making it a prized addition to collections around the world.
 
Key Features of Pachypodium saundersii
Bottle-Shaped Trunk (Caudex): The most distinctive feature is its swollen, silvery-grey trunk that tapers towards the top, resembling a bottle. This caudex serves as a water storage organ.
Sharp Spines: The trunk is armed with pairs of sharp, conical spines arranged along ridges.
Deciduous Leaves: During the active growing season, it produces a crown of simple, green leaves at the top of the trunk. These leaves are typically shed during the dormant winter period.
Striking White Flowers: Mature plants produce clusters of beautiful, star-shaped white flowers with a yellow center. These fragrant blooms typically appear in late winter or early spring, often when the plant is leafless.
Relatively Slow Growth: Pachypodium saundersii is a slow-growing species, adding to its value and the patience required for cultivation.
 
Care for Your Pachypodium saundersii
Light: Requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. A sunny windowsill or greenhouse is ideal.
Soil: Needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot, a common issue with caudiciform succulents. A mix designed for cacti and succulents with added perlite or pumice is recommended.
Watering: Water thoroughly during the active growing season (spring and summer) when the soil is dry to the touch. Reduce watering significantly or withhold water entirely during the dormant winter months when the leaves have dropped. Overwatering during dormancy is a primary cause of rot.
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures during its growing season. Protect from frost and freezing temperatures, as these can be fatal. A minimum temperature of around 10°C (50°F) is generally recommended during dormancy.
Humidity: Tolerates low to average humidity levels. Good air circulation is important.
 
Maintenance for a Healthy Star of the Lundi
Repotting: Repot infrequently, only when the plant has significantly outgrown its container. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger. Ensure the new pot has excellent drainage. Spring is the best time for repotting.
Fertilizing: Feed sparingly during the active growing season with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer formulated for cacti and succulents. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Pest Control: Monitor for common succulent pests such as mealybugs and scale, which can sometimes hide in the spines or leaf axils. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Handling Spines: Exercise caution when handling the plant due to its sharp spines. Wear gloves or use tools to avoid injury.
 
Propagation Methods for Pachypodium saundersii
Seeds: Propagation is primarily through seeds, which can be challenging and slow. Fresh seeds have a higher germination rate. Sow seeds in a warm, well-draining medium and maintain consistent moisture and warmth.
Offsets (Very Rare): Offsets are very rare for Pachypodium saundersii. If they do occur, they can be carefully separated once they have developed their own roots, similar to other succulents. Allow the cut surfaces to callus before planting.
 
Pachypodium saundersii, with its distinctive sculptural form and beautiful white flowers, is a captivating and rewarding succulent for collectors who appreciate unique and slow-growing specimens. Its relatively straightforward care requirements, coupled with its striking appearance, make the Star of the Lundi a true gem in the world of arid-adapted plants.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide.  Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.