Caralluma negevensis Zohary ex Feinbrun
Negev Caralluma
Succulent endemic to the Negev Desert of Israel, considered one of the rarest and most threatened Caralluma in the world. Described by Michael Zohary (ex Naomi Feinbrun), two prominent Israeli botanists of the 20th century. In modern classification, some authors include it as a subspecies of Caralluma europaea under the name Apteranthes europaea subsp. negevensis, linking it to Mediterranean populations. Its distribution is extremely restricted, limited to a few rocky enclaves in the central and northern Negev highlands, making it a floristic element of high conservation value for the arid biodiversity of the Near East.
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© Gideon Pisanty (Gidip) / Wikimedia Commons
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Overview
| Category | Classification |
|---|---|
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Caralluma |
| Growth Habit | Clump-forming succulent with compact erect quadrangular stems, 10–20 cm tall |
| Conservation Status | Endangered / Vulnerable; extremely restricted distribution in the Israeli Negev; protected species in Israel |
| pH Target | 7.5–8.8 |
| Type | Calcareous loess and stony hamada of the Negev; strongly alkaline pH |
Origin & Habitat
Requirements
Soil & Substrate
Type
Calcareous loess and stony hamada of the Negev; strongly alkaline pH
groups Beneficial Associations
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Propagation Strategy
G
W
Every 3–4 years; handle with care given its rarity and slow development
Very diluted calcareous fertiliser (cactus or lime mix), just once at the start of spring
Uses & Applications
Precautions / Toxicity
Not toxic; flowers with weak to moderate fetid odour during anthesis
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"Zohary and Feinbrun described this species in the context of Flora Palaestina. Its assignment as a subspecies of Caralluma europaea (= Apteranthes europaea subsp. negevensis) reflects its biogeographical affinity with the eastern Mediterranean europaea complex. The drastic reduction of its habitat makes it the subject of conservation programmes in Israel."
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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.