Consulta Plantas

Care of the tree Fouquieria splendens or Candlewood

The genus Fouquieria, family Fouquieriaceae, comprises 11 species of shrubs and trees native to northern Mexico and the southwestern United States. Some species are: Fouquieria splendens, Fouquieria columnaris, Fouquieria fasciculata, Fouquieria macdougalii, Fouquieria formosa.

Common names: Coachwhip, Candlewood, Coach-whip, Slimwood, Desert coral, Candle Bush, Boojum, Jacob's staff, Jacob cactus, Vine cactus. This species is native to California, Arizona and Texas (USA) and to Zacatecas and Hidalgo (Mexico).

Fouquieria splendens is a deciduous tree that branches from the base and is very thorny, reaching 6 metres (19.68 feet) in height. Although it does not have leaves almost all year round, they appear in the rainy season and can be spoon-shaped or elliptical. The plant performs photosynthesis through the stem. The long thorns can reach 4 cm (1.57") in length. The tubular flowers are red. It blooms in spring or summer, always after the rains.

Candlewood is used as an isolated specimen, in rockeries, to form impenetrable barriers and hedges, and in pots when they are young. The flowers are edible in salads and to prepare infusions (use dried flowers).

Fouquieria splendens grows well in full sun and light shade exposures in warm, dry climates. It resists sporadic frosts.

Although it prefers calcareous soil, it grows well in any type of soil that has excellent drainage.

Water moderately, waiting for the substrate to dry completely. Do not water when it has lost its leaves, as the plant goes dormant. It is very resistant to drought.

Desert coral does not need fertilizer.

Prune the basal branches if you want to achieve a thicker trunk.

Fouquieria splendens is a plant resistant to the usual pests and diseases but sensitive to excess humidity.

Candlewood is propagated by cuttings and from seeds sown in autumn or spring.

Images of the tree Fouquieria splendens or Candlewood