Takhtajania perrieri

Takhtajania

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Taxonomy

Family Monotropaceae · Genus Takhtajania

Description

Takhtajania perrieri is a legendary, ancient evergreen tree from Madagascar’s cool, misty cloud forests. A true “living fossil,” it survives in a few remote sites and is rarely, if ever, seen in cultivation. It prefers constant moisture, deep shade, and airy, acidic soils—conditions that mimic its highland rainforest home.

Common Names

TakhtajaniaPerrier’s takhtajaniaMadagascar takhtajania

Context

nativeRegion

Northeastern Madagascar, humid montane (cloud) forests of the Masoala–Marojejy region.

usdaZones

Not typically rated; if attempted, estimated USDA 10–11 in frost-free, cool, humid conditions.

companionPlants

Tree ferns (Cyathea spp.), Vireya rhododendrons, Asplenium and other ferns, Mosses and epiphytes

culturalUses

Primarily of scientific and conservation interest as an ancient lineage; no documented traditional uses due to extreme rarity and protection.

Care

Care Requirements

LightBright, dappled shade to deep filtered shade; avoid direct, hot sun.

WateringKeep evenly moist with excellent drainage; never let fully dry or sit waterlogged. Use soft, low-mineral water if possible.

SoilAcidic, humus-rich, airy mix (leaf mold, fine bark, perlite/pumice); emulates cloud-forest leaf litter.

FertilizerVery light feeding during active growth with diluted, low-salt organic fertilizer; avoid heavy or frequent applications.

HumidityHigh humidity (70–95%); consistent mist and good air movement to prevent fungal issues.

TemperatureCool to mild: ideally 10–22°C (50–72°F); avoid frost and prolonged heat above ~27°C (80°F).

Growth & Life Cycle

HabitEvergreen small tree to large shrub; cloud-forest understory/subcanopy.

Mature SizeIn habitat 6–10 m tall and 3–5 m wide; typically far smaller in cultivation.

Growth RateSlow-growing.

BloomingInconspicuous flowers; sporadic and rarely observed in cultivation.

DormancyEvergreen with no true dormancy; growth slows in cooler, drier periods.

Propagation

MethodsFresh seed (very limited availability), Semi-hardwood cuttings (very difficult), Air layering (experimental), Micropropagation/tissue culture

DifficultyVery difficult; generally limited to conservation programs and expert collections.

Best SeasonLate spring to early summer for cuttings/layering; sow fresh seed as soon as ripe.

Maintenance & Notes

PruningMinimal; remove only dead or crossing wood. Avoid hard pruning.

RepottingInfrequent; step up one size every 2–3 years with fresh, airy acidic mix to prevent compaction.

Pests & DiseasesSensitive to root rot (Phytophthora), fungal leaf spots in stagnant humidity; may attract scale or mites under stress.

ToxicityNot well documented; treat as potentially harmful if ingested and keep away from pets/children.

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