Fouquieria - Macdougalii (Mexican Tree Ocotillo)

Fouquieria macdougalii
Common Name: Mexican Tree Ocotillo

Fouquieria macdougalii, commonly known as the Mexican Tree Ocotillo, is a rare and striking desert species that brings both structure and drama to any xeriscape or succulent collection. Unlike its more common cousin (Fouquieria splendens), this species forms a tall, woody trunk and eventually branches like a small tree, giving it a bold, architectural silhouette.

Its long, spiny stems are adorned with small, lush green leaves during the growing season, and in spring to summer, it produces clusters of tubular, orange-red flowers that are highly attractive to hummingbirds. Native to northern Mexico and parts of southern Arizona, this drought-tolerant oddity is a must-have for collectors of caudiciforms and desert bonsai.

☀ Light Requirements
Thrives in full sun. Outdoors, place in the brightest spot possible. Indoors, supplement with strong grow lights or situate near a south-facing window.

💧 Watering Needs
Extremely drought-tolerant. Water only when the soil is fully dry. During winter dormancy, water even less frequently. Leaf drop is normal in dry conditions and not a sign of poor health.

🌡 Temperature Tolerance
Hardy to around 20–25°F if kept dry. For areas with heavy frost or cold rain, protect or grow in containers. For winter orders, add a [Heat Pack].

✨ Special Features
• Tree-Like Growth – Forms a branching trunk with age
• Seasonal Leaves & Flowers – Deciduous in drought; blooms attract pollinators
• Rare & Desert-Hardy – A stunning architectural specimen

Other Common Names:
Mexican Tree Ocotillo, Tree Form Ocotillo, Fouquieria Tree

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 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.