Calibanus hookeri
(Agavaceae)
A strange and wonderful plant Calibanus hookeri looks a little like a large pinecone with grass growing on the top. The pinecone part is the large woody cuadex, the grass is the foliage. It is an evergreen succulent with more character than most.
With only two species in the genus Calibanus hookeri is the one that is most sought after. Over time develops a woody stem or ‘caudex’ that in time can reach almost 1m in diameter. From this caudex grow long, grassy bluish leaves. Originally from Mexico Calibanus hookeri is a strange but very interesting plant.
Its only relative is Calibanus glassianus, relatively new to cultivation it has a stem that is more prominent, perhaps a more interesting specimen.
Growing conditions and Calibanus care.
Calibanus, ike most succulents are sun loving, and are generally regarded as drought tolerant. Calibanus when young, are suitable for growing in containers or pots, as they get older (and bigger) a place in the open ground is best. However this will depend on your climate, in very cold wet climates, container growing will still be best.
- Position – Full Sun
- Soil – Well drained.
- Water thoroughly every 4 – 6 weeks.
Calibanus plants are available for sale form the following nurseries
Succulent nursery for drought hardy plants. Includes: Adenium, Agave, Alluadia, Aloe, Anecampseros, Crassula, Euphorbia, Gasteraloe, Haworthia, Kalanchoe, Ledebouria, Portulacaria, Sedum, Senecio and many others.
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