The  Hoodia gordonii, known as Kalahari Cactus, is a vibrant member of the genus Hoodia! This Hoodia is sometimes referred to as the “cactus of the Kalahari" due to its spiky appearance and ability to store water, which are traits that are commonly associated with cacti. The Kalahari is the name of a desert located primarily in southern Africa, covering parts of Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. 

However, Kalahari is not a true cactus and belongs to the succulent family Apocynaceae. This leafless and spiny succulent can grow up to 3 feet tall, also known as Bushman's hat or xhoba, and is like no other wonder plant you've ever seen. 

The Hoodia gordonii flowers are small, pale purple blooms that bloom from late summer to early fall.

Its flowers may make your nose wrinkle with their putrid smell resembling rotten meat but fear not because these blooms are pollinated by an unusual ally - flies.

Even though these features might seem unappealing to you, fear not, because hidden within this succulent lies a secret power: appetite suppression.

Health and Diet Uses

Kalahari Cactus has gained significant popularity as a natural diet supplement due to its ability to suppress appetite and help manage hunger. Traditionally used by the San people of the Kalahari Desert to fend off hunger during long hunting trips, Hoodia gordonii is now widely marketed as a weight loss aid. The plant contains an active compound called P57 hoodia, which is believed to influence the brain's hunger signals, helping individuals feel fuller for longer.

Due to its reputation for supporting weight management, Hoodia gordonii is frequently used in various diet products, such as capsules, powders, and teas. While it is a popular choice for those looking to control cravings and reduce calorie intake, it is essential to combine it with a balanced diet and regular exercise for the best results. As with any supplement, consulting with a healthcare professional before use is recommended, especially for those with underlying health conditions.

With its clumps of upright stems adorned with tan flowers and thorns acting as nature's warning signpost, there's no way this vibrant plant will go unnoticed in your desert landscape. 

When and How to Water your Hoodia gordonii 

Hoodia gordonii is a succulent plant that can survive with minimal water, but it still needs some water to grow and stay healthy. If the plant is underwatered, it may start to wilt or develop brown spots on its leaves. It may also stop growing or flowering.

On the other hand, if the plant is overwatered, it can develop root rot, which can be fatal. Often, people worry they aren't giving their plants enough water when in reality, they are over-watering them. This is especially the case with Hoodia, as they don't do well in moist soil, which can result in root rot.

To avoid both underwatering and overwatering, it is important to water the plant only when the soil is completely dry. When you do water the plant, make sure to soak the soil thoroughly, but then allow it to dry out completely before watering again. This will help prevent both underwatering and overwatering and keep your plant healthy. 

Light Requirement - Where to Place Your Hoodia gordonii 

If you are growing Hoodia gordonii indoors, it is important to place it near a south-facing window, where it will receive the most sunlight. If your home does not receive a lot of direct sunlight, you can also use a grow light to provide the plant with the light it needs to grow and thrive. A full spectrum LED grow light is a good option, as it will provide the succulent with the wavelengths of light, it needs for photosynthesis. 

For outdoor cultivation, to keep your Hoodia gordonii plant healthy, it is important to provide it with bright, direct sunlight for at least six hours each day. This will help prevent leggy growth and ensure that the plant receives the nutrients it needs to thrive. It can produce more chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis. This can help your adorable Namib hoodia grow more quickly and produce more flowers. 

When the plant is exposed to low light conditions, it may start to grow more slowly and become leggy or stretched out. The leaves may also become pale or yellow, and the plant may stop growing or flowering. 

If the hoodia is exposed to low light for extended periods, it can become stressed and weakened, which can make it more susceptible to pests and diseases. The succulent may also become more prone to developing root rot, as the soil will stay moist for longer periods of time. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

When it comes to choosing the right soil for your adorable Namib desert plant, you need to be careful! It's like picking out the perfect outfit for a date - you want to make sure everything is just right so there are no surprises later on. Ideally, you want to use our specialized succulent potting mix that contains 5 natural substrates and organic mycorrhizae to promote the development of a strong root system that helps your succulent to thrive.  

When it comes to fertilizing, remember that less is more. In fact, it is best to avoid over-fertilizing the hoodia, as this can cause it to become leggy and weak. A small amount of NPK fertilizer once a year in spring will do wonders for your plant's health and growth. Ideally, you should look for a natural fertilizer with an approximate blend of 5-10-5 that is higher in phosphorus than nitrogen. 

Hardiness Zones & More

When growing indoors, the Hoodia gordonii thrives in warm temperatures between 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, it is important to maintain indoor humidity levels around 40-50% to ensure optimal growth conditions for the plant.

For outdoor cultivation, this succulent is hardy to USDA zones 9-11, which means that it can tolerate temperatures as low as 35 F. If you live in a colder region, you can still grow the plant indoors as long as you provide it with the right growing conditions, such as bright, direct sunlight and well-draining soil. 

Hoodia prefers dry air and does not do well in humid conditions. It is important to make sure that the plant is not overwatered, as this can cause the soil to become waterlogged and lead to root rot. If you live in a humid area, it is best to place it in a well-ventilated area or use a dehumidifier to help keep the air dry.

Wildlife - Hoodia gordonii Attracts the Following Friendly Pollinators

Hoodia gordonii plays a unique role in attracting pollinators, particularly flies. Its large, star-shaped flowers emit a distinctive, carrion-like odor that mimics the scent of decaying flesh. This strong smell acts as a lure for flies, which are the primary pollinators of the plant. The flower’s color and texture further enhance this mimicry, making it a suitable destination for flies seeking a place to lay eggs. Although the scent may be off-putting to humans, it is an effective strategy for pollination, ensuring the reproduction and survival of the species in its native desert environment.

Toxicity: Hoodia gordonii is generally considered non-toxic to humans and pets. The plant's spiny surface also provides a natural deterrent to animals, further minimizing the risk of accidental ingestion.

How to Propagate Your Hoodia gordonii

Hoodia gordonii can be propagated through both seeds and cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept in a warm, sunny location to germinate, while cuttings can be taken from mature plants and rooted in a similar soil mixture. Additionally, it is important to provide adequate water and protection from extreme temperatures during the propagation process to ensure successful growth.

Key Takeaways

The Bottom Line

Overall, the Hoodia gordonii offers an appealing combination of unique features and easy care, making it a valuable addition to any succulent collection. Its fascinating appearance, with spiny green stems and distinctive star-shaped flowers, provides an eye-catching element to arid landscapes. While this plant thrives on minimal water, proper care includes occasional deep watering and ensuring well-draining soil to prevent root rot. For buyers looking to add a resilient and intriguing plant to their collection, Hoodia gordonii is both a conversation starter and a low-maintenance option that brings the beauty of the desert to life.