Caralluma dioscoridis Lavranos
Socotra Caralluma
A succulent endemic to the island of Socotra, named in honour of the Greek physician Dioscorides, who described medicinal plants from Socotra in his 'De Materia Medica' (1st century AD). Described by John Lavranos. Socotra Island is known as the 'Galápagos of the Indian Ocean' for its exceptional endemism. Inhabits arid calcareous soils of the island.
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Caralluma |
| Growth Habit | Succulent with erect quadrangular stems, adapted to the arid insular environment |
| Conservation Status | Potentially Vulnerable; endemic to Socotra, threatened by land-use changes |
| pH Target | 7.5–8.5 |
| Type | Insular calcareous rocky, very well-draining and alkaline soil |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Insular calcareous rocky, very well-draining and alkaline soil
groups Beneficial Associations
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Propagation Strategy
D
H
Every 3 years
Once a year in summer
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
No known toxicity
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
"Socotra harbours over 300 endemic species. The name dioscoridis connects this plant to the ancient history of the island, mentioned in the writings of the Greek physician 2,000 years ago."
chevron_right edit_note Proposed edits auto-approved at +3 net votes
No pending proposals for this section.
Scientific Integrity
🟡 MediumVote to help validate this record
Sources
Loading…
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.