Among the most unique and wonderful things nature has created are succulents. They come in many different shapes and sizes, and they are drought-resistant and easy to care for. Introducing one of the stunning Octopus plants, known as Didierea trollii, a fascinating rare succulent native to Madagascar. It gets its common name, octopus tree or octopus plant, from its unique and captivating growth habit, which resembles the tentacles of an octopus. This Trolli species was named after Wilhelm Troll, a botany professor at the University of Mainz and the founder of the botanical garden in Mainz, Germany. 

The octopus plant is characterized by long, slender stems that develop in a twisting and curling way, mimicking the tentacles of an octopus. These stems initially grow along the ground and then stand upright, reaching up to 10 feet long and 15 feet wide, making a captivating and amusing display. The smooth stems and grayish-white thorns are surrounded by green, fleshy leaves that are frequently arranged spirally, giving the plant an even more octopus-like appearance. 

This low-maintenance succulent plant can be easily propagated through stem cuttings. It produces greenish-white flowers with pink stamens that bloom in summer. Additionally, the octopus plant is safe for humans and pets, making it a safe choice to have around your home.  

Watering Needs 

When it comes to watering the Octopus Plant, it's important to strike a balance. This succulent is well-adapted to arid and semi-arid environments, so it doesn't require frequent watering. Overwatering can actually be detrimental to the octopus plant's health. 

To meet the watering needs of your Octopus tree, it's best to follow the "soak and dry" method. This means thoroughly watering Didierea trollii and allowing the soil to dry out completely before watering again. It's important to ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent water from sitting around the roots, which can lead to root rot. 

In general, it's recommended to water the Octopus Plant about once every two to three weeks during the growing season, which is typically in the spring and summer. However, it's important to adjust the watering frequency based on the specific conditions of your environment. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and the type of soil mix used can influence the succulent plant's water needs.

Light Requirements

When it comes to light requirements, the Octopus Plant prefers bright, indirect light. It thrives in a spot where it can receive a good amount of bright, filtered sunlight throughout the day. However, it's important to protect it from intense, direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves of your octopus plant. These plants are native to thickets (mini forests) and thrive in the shade of other trees. 

To provide the ideal light conditions for your succulent, you can place it near a window that receives bright, indirect light. East or west-facing windows are frequently good choices. If you notice that your Didierea trollii is not getting enough light, you can supplement its light intake with artificial grow lights specifically designed for succulents.

Keep in mind that the Octopus Plant is a slow-growing succulent, so it may not require as much light as some other succulent varieties. However, it's always a good idea to monitor the plant and adjust its light exposure as needed. If you notice the leaves stretching or becoming pale, it may be an indication that the plant needs more light. 

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

To meet the optimal soil and fertilizer needs of the Didierea trollii, it's important to provide well-draining soil and a balanced fertilizer. 

For the soil, you'll want to use a well-drained mix that mimics its natural habitat. These specialty soil mixes have been precisely developed to imitate well-draining desert soils. Commercial succulent soil is affordable and available online or at Home Depot. We believe the best option is to use our specialty succulent potting mix that contains over 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 the Octopus Plant, a balanced natural NPK fertilizer (5-10-5) formulated for succulents can be beneficial. During the growing season in spring, you can fertilize it once a year. However, it's important to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant. 

Remember, it's always best to adjust the frequency and strength of fertilization based on the specific needs of your Octopus Plant. Observing the plant's growth and overall health will help you determine if it requires more or less fertilizer. 

Hardiness Zone & More

The Octopus tree is native to the arid regions of Madagascar. It is well-suited to warm and dry climates, making it suitable for hardiness zones 9-11. It thrives in temperatures between 70-85°F but can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures down to 60°F.  

In terms of humidity, the Octopus Plant prefers low to moderate humidity levels. It can tolerate dry air and does not require high humidity to thrive. However, it's important to avoid excessive humidity or stagnant air, as it can lead to fungal diseases or rot. Good air circulation is beneficial for the Octopus tree plant's overall health. 

To create the ideal environment for your Octopus tree-like succulent, ensure that it is placed in a warm and well-ventilated area with good air circulation. Avoid overwatering, as the plant is adapted to arid conditions and can be susceptible to root rot if kept in consistently moist soil. 

Be sure to add Didierea trollii octopus plant to your collection today and elevate the beauty of your home or garden with this stunning-looking plant.