"In today’s world, houseplants are the still definitely an ‘it’ plant. They are a quick and easy way for consumers to bring nature inside. For ‘plant parents’, as their ‘babies’ grow, they want to take it up a notch from the tried and true, easy to grow varieties and move on to the different and unusual," explains Robert Pettorini of Fleurizon. In this article, he discusses Caudiciform (aka Caudex), a group of plants that have taken a recent hold on the plant collector market.
‘Fat plants’
"When it comes to rare and unique houseplants, Caudiciform is such a plant group. This group of plants generally refers to the presence of a caudex or a fat, succulent base/trunk or root that rests above the soil. Many Caudiciform have absolutely nothing in common other than a fat stem or above-ground roots, so naturally, this encompasses a very large group of plants. They are often referred to as ‘fat plants’ or ‘fat bottomed’. These ‘fat plants’ have taken a recent hold on the plant collector market and are highly sought after; they are all the rage amongst the plant hobbyist community. In fact, with the wide variety of Caudex available, collecting this specific plant genus can almost turn into a hobby in and of itself."
High demand
Demand for these Caudex is the next natural step in the evolution of the house plant industry over the last few years, Pettorini explains. "Due to the houseplant explosion, Caudex is easily taking hold of one of the top spots in terms of popularity that was inevitable due to the wide variety they encompass."
Stephania erecta
Low maintenance house plant.
According to Pettorini, the plants are low maintenance. "Most Caudex originate from areas that have seasonal rains where the root or stem will collect water. This helps the plant survive long periods of time without water. The best time to water would be during the spring and summer, but only when the soil is completely dry; otherwise, too much water can induce rot. The lack of attentiveness makes several varieties exceptionally easy to plant and care for and makes for a rather low-maintenance house plant. It also means many varieties are ideal for collectors just beginning their venture into becoming a houseplant enthusiast."
Wide variety
Caudex are also an exceptional houseplant option due to their diverse types of foliage, flowers, and habits. There are well over 100 types of plants that could fall into the Caudiciform category, so there is no shortage of options with far too many varieties and species to list in this article. The above soil planting for Caudex makes them a perfect option for planting in one-of-a-kind planters and pots to suit any home décor and highlight their large and bulky stems. Also, the fact that many have climbing foliage that can be trellised, only adds to the visually unique aspect of many Caudex.
Stephania erecta and adenia viridiflora.
From bulb to retail-ready product in only a few months
Fleurizon International supplies its customers directly from their growers located in Asia. Advantages for their customers are twofold, Pettorini explains. "One is being able to easily import a top-quality product, and two is cutting down on a very lengthy seed to bulb/root grow time to only a few months after bulbs are delivered to be finished into a retail-ready product."
"In closing, if you are looking to add an unusual houseplant to your collection, Caudiciform are the definition of unique. With many house plant collectors and enthusiasts finding their caudex collection to be quickly slipping into an obsession, this is a great product for web business."
For more information:
Fleurizon
Robert Pettorini
Email: robert@fleurizon.com
T: +1 805 389 8980
www.fleurizon.com