Pittocaulon praecox
Pittocaulon praecox
Palo Loco
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Taxonomy
Family Asteraceae · Genus Pittocaulon
Description
Pittocaulon praecox, often called “palo loco,” is a striking Mexican succulent tree with a chunky, pale trunk and sparse, leathery leaves. It flowers in late winter with cheerful yellow daisies on mostly leafless branches, giving it a dramatic, sculptural look in dry gardens or containers. Tough and drought-tolerant, it thrives in bright sun and lean, fast-draining soil.
Common Names
Palo LocoMexican Tree SenecioCrazy Stick
Context
nativeRegion
Central Mexican highlands on rocky, volcanic slopes and scrublands.
usdaZones
9b–11
companionPlants
Agave spp., Dasylirion spp., Yucca spp., Opuntia spp., Echinocactus grusonii, Nolina spp.
culturalUses
Used as a sculptural ornamental in xeriscapes and arid gardens; occasionally grown as a living accent or hedgerow in parts of Mexico.
Care
Care Requirements
LightFull sun to very bright light; light afternoon shade in hot deserts is acceptable.
WateringWater deeply, then let soil dry fully. Keep nearly dry in cool winter dormancy to prevent rot.
SoilFast-draining, gritty cactus/succulent mix with added pumice or perlite (30–50%).
FertilizerLight feeding during active growth (spring–summer) with low-nitrogen succulent fertilizer at 1/4–1/2 strength monthly.
HumidityPrefers low to average humidity; ensure strong air flow in humid climates.
TemperatureIdeal 55–90°F (13–32°C). Protect from hard frost; brief dips to ~25–28°F (-4 to -2°C) may be tolerated when dry.
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitPachycaulous, branching succulent shrub to small tree; semi-deciduous in dry season.
Mature Size6–15 ft (1.8–4.5 m) tall and 4–10 ft (1.2–3 m) wide in-ground; smaller in containers.
Growth RateModerate to fast in warm seasons with good light and drainage.
BloomingLate winter to early spring; showy yellow daisy-like inflorescences on mostly leafless stems.
DormancyDry-season/winter dormancy; may drop leaves and pause growth in cool, dry conditions.
Propagation
MethodsStem cuttings (allow to callus), Seed
DifficultyEasy to moderate
Best SeasonLate spring to summer for cuttings; sow seed in spring.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningPrune after flowering or in late spring to shape and control height; remove dead inflorescences. Allow cuts to callus in dry shade.
RepottingRepot every 2–3 years in spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, gritty mix.
Pests & DiseasesWatch for mealybugs, scale, and spider mites; root/stem rot from overwatering or poor drainage is the main risk.
ToxicityPotentially toxic if ingested (pyrrolizidine alkaloids); keep away from pets and livestock. Sap may irritate sensitive skin.
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