Accession Count: 1
Common Name:
tropical ocotillo
Family Name:
Fouquieriaceae
Botanical Name:
Fouquieria fasciculata
Sub Species:
Variety:
Forma:
Cultivar:
Characteristics:
This unique and endangered tree is well know for its swollen caudex (the barrel). The caudex can grow up to 23 inches in diameter. This type of 'ocotillo' is a smaller version then the well know ocotillo. From the caudex grows slender woody branches that grow upward and have sharp, red, spines. Its known for its small rounded leaves and small white flowers that bloom in the summer (1).
Compound:
Fou fas
Geographic Origin:
Southern Mexico
Ecozone Origin:
Neotropic
Biome Origin:
Natural History:
The Fouquieria fasciculata is endemic to the high altitudes of the Metztitlan area in Mexico (1). This species of plant was collected by Alexander von Humboldt and Aime Bonpland, a French botanist, in 1803 in in south Hidalgo (2, 3).
Cultivation Notes:
To ensure a sturdy trunk prune away side branches this will help make a swollen trunk. This plant grows best in full sun to partial shade. When having a watering regiment water more when the plant is producing leaves, in the spring, and keep it dry when the plant becomes dormant in winter (no leaves) (2).
Ethnobotany:
This plant is valued for it's landscaping values. In Mexico this species is often used as a hedge plant. It is also used as an accent plant or a deterrent for foot traffic due to it sharp thorns (2). The tropical ocotillo has been reported to help stagnation in the blood to help cure prostatitis (5).
Height:
11 - 15 feet
Width:
11 - 15 feet
Growth Rate:
Slow Growing
Grow Season:
Spring
Flower Season:
Summer
Color:
White
Function:
Accent
Spread:
Non-spreading
Allergen:
Non-allergenic
Invasive:
Benign
Toxicity:
Benign
Hardy:
Hardy
Water Use:
Low water Use
