+ light
bright, indirect light preferred. gentle direct sun tolerated.
+ water
infrequent and intentional. a true caudiciform that stores water in its base. let soil dry completely between waterings.
+ soil
fast-draining. roots expect oxygen.
+ humidity
indifferent. no misting. no accommodations.
+ fertilizing
minimal.
+ difficulty
unfussy.
+ important notes
dormancy is normal.
this plant will drop leaves and go dormant, sometimes for extended periods. it is not dead.
dormancy is not on a schedule.
more likely in lower light and cooler conditions, but can happen at any time.
yellowing may precede dormancy.
leaves may fade before dropping, but can also fall while still green. this is normal.
do not water a dormant plant.
without leaves, it uses very little water. continued watering leads to rot.
growth is inconsistent.
it may remain inactive for weeks or months, then resume without warning.
emergence is slow.
new growth can take time to appear. do not intervene prematurely.
light affects timing.
brighter conditions support active growth. lower light prolongs dormancy.
bottom watering preferred.
limits excess moisture around the caudex.
the caudex should stay firm.
softness indicates rot. this is the primary failure point.