Boucerosia decaisneana Lem.
Decaisne's Orbea
A succulent of subfamily Asclepiadoideae originally described within genus Boucerosia and currently recognised as Orbea decaisneana. Distributed across arid and semi-dry savannas of West Africa (Burkina Faso, Mali, Nigeria) and possibly the Arabian Peninsula. Its flowers are extraordinarily showy: cream to bright yellow petals with red or purple spots and bands, with a rugose, fleshy surface that mimics decomposing material to attract fly pollinators.
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© Marco Schmidt (Senckenberg Institute)
CC BY-SA 3.0
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Boucerosia |
| Growth Habit | Prostrate to erect succulent; quadrangular stems 10–30 cm with toothed angles, forming dense clumps |
| Conservation Status | Data Deficient (DD) at individual species level per IUCN; not formally assessed as Orbea decaisneana |
| pH Target | 6.8–8.0 |
| Type | Fine to coarse sand with laterite, neutral to slightly alkaline pH |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Fine to coarse sand with laterite, neutral to slightly alkaline pH
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
A
W
Every 3 years
Low-nitrogen mineral fertiliser (type 5-10-10) in spring, a single annual application
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Cardiac glycosides present in stems may be toxic upon high ingestion; keep away from pets and children
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Plant Health
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"The species was dedicated to Joseph Decaisne (1807–1882), Belgian-French botanist at the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle. Revisions by Plowes and Bruyns definitively transferred it to genus Orbea based on floral corona characteristics. Field photographs by Marco Schmidt and Yakovlev confirm its presence in Burkina Faso."
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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.