Didierea Trollii

Didierea trollii
Common Name: Octopus Tree

Didierea trollii is a rare and otherworldly spiny succulent native to the dry spiny forests of southwestern Madagascar. With its tall, columnar stems covered in dense whorls of sharp spines and small deciduous leaves, it resembles something out of a prehistoric landscape. This plant is a true caudiciform oddity, perfect for collectors of the weird and wild.

Often mistaken for a Euphorbia or Alluaudia, Didierea trollii is part of the Didiereaceae family and thrives in arid conditions with excellent drainage and full sun. It develops a tree-like form over time, making it a striking architectural specimen in xeric gardens or well-lit greenhouses.

☀ Light Requirements
Loves full sun and thrives in bright, intense light. Outdoors it can take all-day sun; indoors, place in the brightest location possible.

💧 Watering Needs
Very drought-tolerant. Water thoroughly during the growing season (spring to fall) but allow soil to dry out completely between waterings. Minimal water in winter.

🌡 Temperature Tolerance
Frost-sensitive. Should be protected from temperatures below 40°F (4°C). Best grown in USDA zones 10–11 or overwintered indoors in colder climates.

✨ Special Features
• Spiny Sculptural Form – Wild silhouette with dense, radiating spines
• Deciduous Leaves – Sheds small leaves during dormancy or stress
• Ultra-Rare – Hard to find and highly collectible

Other Common Names: None widely used; often just called “Didierea” or “Octopus Tree” in cultivation

This cactus will ship bare root and will be ready to place directly in a well draining soil mix like our Custom Cactus Mix.

Photos in the listings unless otherwise specified are representative of the plant that will be sent to you.
However, Plants grow differently and each plant may vary slightly in shape, size, growth pattern, etc.
Of course, if you receive a plant that you are dissatisfied with please reach out to us. We want to make it right!

If temperatures near you are below 45℉ we highly recommend adding a Heat Pack to your order.
If temperatures where you live will be much lower than 20℉ even heat packs may not work. You may consider waiting until things warm up a bit. We know you love your plants just like we do and we wouldn't want any of them to freeze.