Kudu Lily

(Pachypodium saundersii)

Kudu Lily (Pachypodium saundersii)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Pachypodium saundersii image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Pachypodium saundersii, commonly known as Kudu Lily, is a succulent shrub native to rocky outcrops and slopes in the savannas and bushveld of Southern Africa, specifically in the Lebombo Mountains, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Eswatini. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 5 feet in height and is characterized by its thick, water-storing stem and sharp, paired spines. The dark green, shiny leaves are deciduous, dropping during the dry season to conserve water. The Kudu Lily blooms in the spring to summer, producing showy clusters of white flowers with a pinkish or purplish tinge at the branch tips.

The Kudu Lily is valued for its sculptural form and striking flowers, making it a popular choice for rockeries, succulent gardens, and as a potted specimen. It requires minimal maintenance once established and is drought-tolerant, thriving in well-drained soil with infrequent watering. It prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade. While generally disease-resistant, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. In cultivation, it is important to mimic its native habitat conditions to ensure healthy growth.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Succulent
  • Height: 3-4 feet
  • Width: 4-6 feet
  • Growth Rate: Slow
  • Flower Color: Pink, White
  • Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
  • Leaf Retention: Deciduous

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: Low, Medium
  • Drainage: Fast, Medium

Common Uses

Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Rocky outcrops and slopes in savannas and bushveld of Southern Africa

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Pachypodium saundersii, Pachypodium lealii subsp. saundersii,

GBIF Accepted Name: