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Dorstenia Gigas (Dorstenia gigas)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Dorstenia Gigas

Advanced

Dorstenia gigas

From Socotra Island, growing into a massive bottle tree form, an ultimate rare species.

Growing Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
15〜38℃
Lifespan
50+ years
Size
30-100cm
Watering

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.

Basic Info

Origin

Socotra Island, Yemen

Lifespan

50+ years

Size

30-100cm

Temperature

15〜38℃

Watering & Fertilizer

Growing Tips

Size

Massive bottle tree form

Rarity

Ultimate rare species

Origin

Socotra Island

Light

Full sun

CaudexDorsteniaSocotraUltimate Rare

Dorstenia Gigas FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Dorstenia Gigas?
A

Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Dorstenia Gigas?
A

The ideal temperature for Dorstenia Gigas is 15〜38℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QWhat is the lifespan of Dorstenia Gigas?
A

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?
A

The mature size of Dorstenia Gigas is 30-100cm. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QHow should I water and fertilize Dorstenia Gigas?
A

Dorstenia Gigas: watering & fertilizer — −. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.

QWhat is the typical price for Dorstenia Gigas?
A

The price of Dorstenia Gigas varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: July 5, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Dorstenia gigas Schweinf. ex Balf.f.

Authority databases: GBIF · POWO

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

CITES 附属書 I/II いずれにも非掲載。日本の特定外来生物・特定動物にも非該当(植物)。

Sources: CITES Appendix I species list / CITES Appendix II species list / 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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