Matelea cyclophylla is native to Mexico, specifically occurring in the western and southern regions of the country. It is most commonly found in the states of Guerrero, Morelos, and Oaxaca. It belongs to the Apocynaceae family (formerly Asclepiadaceae), often referred to as the "Milkweed" family.
Habitat
In its natural environment, this species thrives in tropical deciduous forests and thorn scrublands at elevations between 500 and 1,500 meters. It typically grows in rocky, well-drained limestone soils, often nestled at the base of trees or shrubs that provide climbing support for its vines and dappled shade for its sensitive caudex. The habitat is characterized by a distinct "wet-and-dry" cycle: it remains dormant during the hot, dry season and grows rapidly during the summer rains.
Description
Matelea cyclophylla is a spectacular caudiciform plant prized for the dramatic contrast between its rugged, prehistoric-looking base and its delicate tropical foliage.
Caudex: The most sought-after feature is its large, perennial woody caudex. As the plant matures, the surface develops thick, corky, polygonal fissures (resembling a tortoise shell), which serve as a protective layer against heat and water loss.
Vines & Foliage: During the growing season, it produces slender, twining vines that can grow several meters long. The leaves are large, bright green, and heart-shaped (cordate), appearing in pairs along the stems.
Flowers: It produces clusters of star-shaped, five-petaled flowers. The blooms are a deep, dark maroon to chocolate-purple color with a velvety texture. They emit a faint, musky odor to attract specific pollinators like flies.
Cultivation: It is a summer grower. It requires a very porous mineral substrate and prefers bright, indirect light. Unlike some desert succulents, it enjoys regular watering during the peak of summer but must be kept completely dry during its winter dormancy to prevent the caudex from rotting.
Nursery Tip: When displaying or potting, the caudex can be partially exposed for aesthetic appeal, but in its juvenile stage, keeping it slightly buried helps accelerate the growth and "corking" of the bark.
Handling Note: Like most members of the Milkweed family, the sap may contain alkaloids that are irritating to the skin.
All plants are shipped bare-root, without pots or soil.
To prevent excessive nutrient loss during international shipping, which may make it harder for the plant to recover, we usually trim the leaves before delivery. If you prefer the plant to be shipped without trimming, please contact me in advance.
Planting Instructions
Please collect the plants as soon as possible after arrival to avoid delays.
Open the package immediately upon receipt and replant. Do not place in direct sunlight; keep in a shaded or indirect light location for 2–3 days.
After the adaptation period, start watering and gradually transition the plant to direct sunlight.
Care Guide
Light: Requires plenty of light year-round, but avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature: Native to tropical arid–semi-arid climates; temperatures below 5°C (41°F) can cause frost damage.
Watering: Water moderately when the soil is 70% dry or completely dry. ○In the warm growing season: 1–2 times per week ○In the cooler dormant season: 2–3 times per month Adjust according to soil dryness and plant water uptake.
Soil: Best grown in well-draining soil; not demanding on soil type.
Fertilizing: Rarely needs fertilization; recommend using Osmocote A2 slow-release fertilizer once or twice a year.
Shipping Notice
After receiving your order, we require 3–5 days for leaf trimming, soil removal, and drying to ensure safe long-distance transport.
We ship via air freight; delivery time is usually 8–16 days.
During transit, plants may enter dormancy and appear shriveled, discolored, or reduced in size—this is normal. They will recover after proper care upon arrival.
(For Wholesale Orders) International Shipping
We can provide a phytosanitary certificate.
The certificate fee is not included in the plant price and will be charged separately. For most standard orders, the fee is typically USD 100.
After-Sales Reminder
Please record an unboxing video upon receipt.
If the plant arrives dead, contact us for a refund or replacement. You can purchase with confidence.
Payment
We accept payments from all major credit cards such as Payoneer, PayPal, VISA, Alipay, etc.
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