Apteranthes burchardii (N.E.Br.) Plowes
Burchard's apteranthes
Apteranthes burchardii is a stapeliad endemic to the eastern islands of the Canary archipelago (Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, and La Graciosa). It is morphologically more robust than A. europaea, with thicker stems and larger flowers. Named for naturalist Oscar Burchard who collected specimens in the Canaries in the early 20th century. Cultivated in the famous Cactus Garden of Lanzarote designed by César Manrique.
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© MMFE (Marc Espen), via Wikimedia Commons
CC BY-SA 3.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Apteranthes |
| Growth Habit | Perennial herbaceous succulent forming dense clumps of erect stems, more robust than A. europaea. |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable (VU) — endemic to a restricted area in the eastern Canary Islands; threatened by habitat loss and grazing. |
| pH Target | 7.0–8.0 |
| Type | Volcanic rocky, lapilli, very porous. Arid oceanic environment. |
Origin & Habitat
Morphology
Succulent, 4-ribbed, grayish-green to brownish, thicker than in A. europaea (up to 2.5 cm diameter), 15–35 cm tall.
ecoStar-shaped, 2–3 cm diameter, yellowish-green to brownish-red petals with darker transverse bands, carrion odor.
ecoSuperficial, fibrous; requires very porous substrate to avoid rot.
ecoPaired follicles with plumed wind-dispersed seeds.
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Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Volcanic rocky, lapilli, very porous. Arid oceanic environment.
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
I
W
Every 3–4 years.
No fertilization, or one minimal dose of mineral fertilizer in July.
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Mildly toxic; irritant latex. Keep away from children and animals.
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Plant Health
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"Emblematic species of Canarian succulent flora. Its cultivation at the Lanzarote Cactus Garden (César Manrique) has given it international recognition. Requires the same strict conditions as A. europaea: absolute winter drought and pure mineral substrate."
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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.