Dorstenia Gigas

Dorstenia gigas is a unique, succulent plant species that belongs to the Moraceae, or fig family. It is native to the island of Socotra, which is off the coast of Yemen. This unusual plant is admired for its striking architectural structure, which features a swollen, bottle-like trunk, known as a caudex, that can grow up to 1 meter in diameter. The caudex serves as a water storage system for the plant, allowing it to survive in its arid native habitat.

The Dorstenia gigas produces small, green leaves that grow in a rosette formation at the top of the trunk. One of the most distinctive features of this plant is its peculiar flower structure, known as a hypanthodium. This unique flower, which resembles a small, round shield with numerous tiny flowers embedded within, is typical of the Dorstenia genus.

Due to its peculiar appearance and its rarity in the wild, Dorstenia gigas is highly sought after by succulent collectors and enthusiasts. It is often grown in containers to accommodate its size and to better display its unique characteristics.