Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dorstenia Gigas
AdvancedDorstenia gigas
From Socotra Island, growing into a massive bottle tree form, an ultimate rare species.
About
Dorstenia gigas is endemic to Socotra Island in the Arabian Sea and is one of the island's most iconic plants. True to its name (gigas = giant), it grows into a massive bottle tree form in habitat, with trunk diameters exceeding 1 meter in old specimens. The pale ivory to gray-white trunk is smooth and the plant branches at the top to support foliage. Flowers are the characteristic flat hypocrateriforms of the genus, and seeds are forcibly ejected. Growth is extremely slow and large specimens are the ultimate rarities. Full sun and extremely porous soil are essential. Restrained watering during growth and complete winter drought with indoor protection from cold are required. Protected under CITES due to Socotra's fragile endemic ecosystem, legal specimens are extraordinarily difficult to obtain, placing it among the most aspirational caudex plants imaginable.
Lifespan of the Dorstenia Gigas
The Dorstenia Gigas lives 50+ years.
Size of the Dorstenia Gigas
The Dorstenia Gigas grows to 30-100cm.
Basic Info
Origin
Socotra Island, Yemen
Lifespan
50+ years
Size
30-100cm
Temperature
15〜38℃
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Full sun is essential. In the growing season, keep it in a sunny, airy spot to grow a firm, compact trunk.
Watering
Even in the growing season, water sparingly and only after the soil is completely dry. Withhold water in winter to keep the trunk dry.
Temperature & Overwintering
Cold tolerance is low, so it must overwinter indoors. Keep it in a warm, dry, bright spot away from cold drafts.
Soil & Repotting
An extremely fast-draining mix is essential. Growth is very slow, so repotting only when root-bound, at the start of the growing season, is enough.
Propagation
It spreads by ejecting its seeds. Collect and sow seed after flowering to propagate, but growth is very slow, so be patient.
Dorstenia Gigas FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Dorstenia Gigas?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QWhat is the lifespan of Dorstenia Gigas?
The average lifespan of Dorstenia Gigas is 50+ years. With proper cultivation environment and nutrient management, you can keep it healthy for a long time.
QHow large does Dorstenia Gigas get?
The mature size of Dorstenia Gigas is 30-100cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QWhat is the typical price for Dorstenia Gigas?
The price of Dorstenia Gigas varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Not listed in either CITES Appendix I or II. Also not subject to Japan's designated invasive species or specified animals regulations (being a plant).
Sources: CITES Appendix I species list / CITES Appendix II species list / Ministry of the Environment List of Specified Invasive Alien Species
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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