Uncarina ankaranensis

Uncarina ankaranensis

Family: Pedalaceae

It is a rare, caudiciform shrub native to northern Madagascar, especially the Ankarana region. It is known for its swollen caudex, which stores water, and its attractive yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers with a dark center. This deciduous plant has lobed green leaves and produces unique, spiny, sticky seed capsules. It’s adapted to dry, rocky habitats and is popular among succulent collectors for its sculptural form and drought tolerance.

Sowing instructions:

1. Prepare the Seeds

• Optional but helpful: Scarify the seeds lightly by rubbing them with fine sandpaper or nicking the seed coat. This helps water penetrate and speeds up germination.

• Soak the seeds in warm water for 12–24 hours before sowing to soften the outer coat.

 2. Soil Mix

Use a well-draining mix, such as:

• 50% cactus soil or potting mix

• 25% coarse sand or perlite

• 25% pumice or fine gravel

🔍 You can also use a succulent-specific mix amended with extra drainage materials.

3. Sowing the Seeds

• Fill small pots or seed trays with the prepared mix.

• Place seeds on the surface and cover lightly (1–2 mm) with soil or sand — they need light but not full exposure to germinate.

• Mist the surface to moisten evenly.

4. Ideal Conditions for Germination

• Temperature: Warm — 22–28°C (72–82°F) is ideal.

• Humidity: Moderate; cover pots with plastic wrap or a humidity dome, but vent daily to avoid fungal issues.

• Light: Bright indirect light or filtered sun. Avoid intense midday sun on young seedlings.

🕰 Germination time: Usually 2 to 4 weeks, though it can take up to 2 months.

Locality: Andrafiabe Madagascar. Harvest: March 2025