Beaucarnea purpusii Rose
Purpus' beaucarnea
Beaucarnea purpusii Rose is a species endemic to the state of Puebla, Mexico. It was named in honor of Carl Albert Purpus (1851–1941), a German botanist and collector who conducted numerous collecting expeditions in Mexico and Central America and described many new succulent species. B. purpusii is characterized by a dense and compact leaf crown. It is a species scarcely documented in cultivation and its taxonomy has been revised several times.
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Beaucarnea |
| Growth Habit | Perennial caudiciform tree; swollen base with fibrous bark. Dense and compact leaf crown, a distinguishing characteristic compared to other species in the genus. Very slow growing. |
| Conservation Status | Poorly evaluated; endemic to Puebla. Potentially threatened by habitat conversion. |
| pH Target | 6.0–7.5 |
| Type | Sandy, very well drained |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Denser and more compact crown than in other genus species; leaves are relatively shorter and more erect, creating a pompom-like appearance.
ecoTypical swollen base, grey-brown fibrous bark.
ecoLinear leaves, slightly shorter and stiffer than B. recurvata; form a compact crown.
ecoPaniculate inflorescences with small white to cream flowers; dioecious species.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Sandy, very well drained
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
- 1 Soak 24 h in warm water
- 2 Sow in mineral substrate at 22–26 °C
- 3 Keep slightly moist
- 4 Transplant when reaching 5 cm
D
Overwatering
Every 3–4 years in spring
Fertilizer diluted to 50% once a month in spring-summer.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Slightly toxic to pets.
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Plant Health
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"B. purpusii was described by Joseph Nelson Rose in 1906 and named in honor of botanical explorer Carl Albert Purpus, who collected the type specimen. The species is scarcely represented in ex situ collections and its exact morphology can be confused with B. gracilis in cultivation."
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Scientific Integrity
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Sources
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Discussion
Disclaimer
This species record is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Jardín Roca Negra does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the data. Content is community-curated and may be subject to revision; it should not replace advice from a qualified botanist. This species may be toxic, invasive, or subject to legal restrictions — verify before handling or cultivating. Jardín Roca Negra accepts no liability for any harm arising from reliance on this information. Images are reproduced under Creative Commons or equivalent free licenses; credits are noted below each image.