Now available are live, 6cm tall Hoodia gordonii plants. Despite their appearance, these plants are not cacti, but succulents of the “Milkweed” family; gordonii is said to be the easiest species of the usually finicky Hoodia genus to cultivate.

This plant is to be grown under full sun to light shade, and is left completely dry in the winter, given little water in spring and autumn, and is watered normally during summer - always allowing the soil to dry out between watering. A recommended growing medium is 3 parts volcanic tufa, 1 part leaf-mold or peat, and 2 parts coarse river sand.

Hoodia gordonii is relatively tolerant to cultivation, and is said to root fairly easily from cuttings. Minimum winter temperatures are 15°C (59°F) in the daytime and 10°C (50°F) at night. Its flower is a fragrant, 8-10 cm, pink corona.

• Hoodia gordonii Cultivation Regulations
• http://www.plantzafrica.com/planthij/hoodia.htm
• PlantzAfrica Cultivation Information