Source: Wikimedia Commons
Tylecodon wallichii
IntermediateTylecodon wallichii
A winter-growing Tylecodon whose thick stem and branches are densely covered with warty, yellow-green persistent leaf bases. Narrow leaves cluster at the branch tips, and dangling yellow-green, urn-shaped flowers appear in the leafless summer.
About
Tylecodon wallichii is a winter-growing stem succulent in the Crassulaceae, found on gravelly or sandy slopes and rocky ridges from southern Namibia through Namaqualand into the Great and Little Karoo of South Africa. It is named after the botanist Nathaniel Wallich. It is a sparsely branched shrublet about 50 cm tall (occasionally 1 m) with a single thick, succulent stem up to 6 cm across. The greyish branches are densely covered with wart-like persistent leaf bases (phyllopodia) up to 1.5 cm long, and this knobbly bark is its main attraction. The leaves, crowded at the branch tips, are hairless, yellowish to ash-green, narrow and 6.5–9.5 cm (up to 15 cm) long with a shallow groove above. They appear in winter and drop cleanly in summer, when the plant, leafless, bears dangling yellow-green urn-shaped flowers 7–12 mm long. It hybridises with Tylecodon paniculatus. Besides the typical subspecies, subsp. ecklonianus is recognised. The plant contains bufadienolide cardiac glycosides that poison livestock, and the leaves are highly poisonous if eaten. Usually grown by specialist collectors, it is not difficult in cultivation. In Japan potted plants are sold online and by specialist nurseries, and seed is also available.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Size of the Tylecodon wallichii
The Tylecodon wallichii grows to About 50 cm tall (occasionally 1 m); stem up to 6 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
Southern Namibia to South Africa (Namaqualand to the Karoo)
Lifespan
Very slow-growing and long-lived (little published data)
Size
About 50 cm tall (occasionally 1 m); stem up to 6 cm across
Temperature
10〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Dilute high-potassium feed in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
It does best fully exposed to sun but will grow and flower in half-sun.
Watering
A winter grower: from late summer to early spring water when the roots are almost dry, reducing to about once every two weeks in the cold of winter.
Dormancy Care
It is deciduous and dormant from late spring through summer; withhold water then.
Temperature & Overwintering
Keep it at a minimum of 5°C in winter, preferably 8°C; the leaves drop easily in cool conditions.
Soil & Repotting
Use a very free-draining mix (equal parts well-rotted compost or fine bark and river sand or pumice, or a gritty cactus mix) and repot every two to three years with slow-release fertilizer added. Plant with the neck at soil level and never bury the swollen stem deeply.
Pests & Cautions
The plant, especially the leaves, is highly poisonous and causes livestock poisoning; keep it away from children and pets. It is prone to mealybugs, so check the branch bases regularly.
Tylecodon wallichii FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Tylecodon wallichii?
Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.
QHow large does Tylecodon wallichii get?
The mature size of Tylecodon wallichii is About 50 cm tall (occasionally 1 m); stem up to 6 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Tylecodon wallichii?
Tylecodon wallichii: watering & fertilizer — Dilute high-potassium feed in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Tylecodon wallichii?
The price of Tylecodon wallichii varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 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 CITES (checked on Species+). No special procedure is needed for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Tylecodon wallichii
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
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