Octopus Tree Plant Care

Octopus Tree (Didiereoideae) belongs to the Didiereaceae family. Octopus Tree is native to continental Africa and Madagascar. Octopus Tree is also known as Alluaudia.

Octopus Tree displays an upright, branching growth habit, reaching up to 20 ft tall with a spread of approximately 8 ft. Octopus Tree produces white, small clusters.

Octopus Tree thrives in full sun.

Well-draining soil mix. Good drainage is essential for Octopus Tree to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Octopus Tree every 2 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 2-3 years in spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Octopus Tree is susceptible to mealybugs, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Octopus Tree grows outdoors in USDA Zone 10a – 11b. It survives winters down to planting zone 10a. Octopus Tree is native to continental Africa and Madagascar. In cooler regions, grow Octopus Tree as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.