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Ocotillo, Candlewood
Scientific Name: Fouquieria splendens Engelm.
Synonym:
Family: Fouquieriaceae Recommended Temperature Zone:
sunset: 10-13, 18-20
USDA: 8-10
Frost Tolerance: Hardy in Phoenix to 0°F (-17°C)
Sun Exposure: Full sun
Origin: Mojave and Colorado deserts, Southwestern USA, northwestern Mexico,
below 5000 feet elevation (1500 m)
Growth Habits: Drought deciduous shrub, slow growing to 20 feet tall (6 m), 15
feet in spread (4.5 m); very spiny stems; light green, oval, entire leaves, up
to 2 inches long (5 cm)
Watering Needs: No water once established
Propagation: Easy by cuttings, seeds
The Ocotillo is a mainstay of Phoenix desert landscaping. It is made of many
spiny pole-like unbranched stems. Leaves appear when some water is present.
Water infrequently to push it to bloom. The ocotillo has sharp spines, so it is
better to keep it away from walking paths.
Cultural Practices:
The Ocotillo is available from many nurseries as bare root, it is a good idea to
find out how long they have been at the nursery, because although the ocotillo
is quite a tough plant, even its toughness has limits. Buying it in pot with
some vegetation is a surer bet. It can be planted as such any time of the year.
Care must be taken to keep the ground relatively dry. Recently planted ocotillos
should be watered by spraying the canes. They can look dead for several months
before sprouting leaves.
Blooming Habits:
Orange flowers, 1 inch long (2.5 cm), in clusters covering the ends of the
canes.
Fruiting Habits:
Propagation:
Pieces of canes stuck in the ground will grow.
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