Pachypodium succulentum (L.f.) Sweet

Pachypodium succulentum (L.f.) Sweet is a succulent shrub in the family Apocynaceae. The species is endemic to South Africa and occurs in the Northern Cape, Western Cape and Free State provinces, where it grows in dry grasslands and among rocky terrain at elevations of up to about 1,400 m.

The plant forms a strongly thickened, partially subterranean caudex that serves as a water reservoir, allowing it to survive prolonged periods of drought. From this base arise thin, spiny branches bearing narrow leaves. Under favourable conditions, Pachypodium succulentum (L.f.) Sweet can reach up to 60 cm in height.

Flowering usually occurs in spring or early summer. The flowers appear at the tips of the branches and are tubular, with five lobes, in shades ranging from white to pink or purplish, often with a darker throat.

Pachypodium succulentum (L.f.) Sweet prefers a sunny position and well-drained soil. The species is drought-tolerant and is valued as a decorative accent in collections of succulent and xerophytic plants.