I think this is a succulent tree. Is there such a thing?
by Jack Foley
(San Diego)
Thanks so much for this service you are offering to people.
This is a very unusual tree which I rescued from near death. It had been abandoned and left for dead but I have carefully revived it over the last five months so now it is a very healthy tree. For me its distinguishing features are the pinkish red buds that keep on appearing as it grows and prospers, and the very slight reddish hue on the edge of the leaves.
I live in San Diego. Thanks again.
Jack Foley
Drought Smart Plants reply:
Hi Jack, and thank you for your kind comment! I like to help people figure out what their plants are so they can have fun growing them to their full potential.
To answer your question - yes, there are such things as succulent trees. The word succulent just refers to the fact that the plant (or tree) has some water holding capability to help it combat drought. Sometimes it's the leaves, or the way the stem holds moisture, or even the roots or trunk.
In the case of this shrub it looks as though the stems are where it would store water, as the leaves look more similar to some types of broadleaved evergreens like Rhododendrons. I'm not sure what this plant would be, as it looks as though it's blooming (is that a flower?) so if you can send me a closer picture of the bloom, that would really help. I'm wondering if it's Clethra, the summersweet shrub.
If it's scented, and attracts bees like crazy this could be it.
Have a look at this link from
Daves Garden Website to see if it looks familiar.
Good luck with your search,
Jacki
I think this is a succulent tree. Is there such a thing?
by Jack Foley
(San Diego)
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More pictures of the succulent tree.
Drought Smart Plants reply:
I am pretty certain that this is Clethra - not sure which one though, as the blooms look a little different from any pictures I can find. You may be able to tell from looking at pictures of it if it's the same. Things to check for similarities are the shape of the leaf, and the way it attaches, the formation of the veins in the leaf, and the texture (glossy, dull, hairy etc.) Also check the form of the flower to see if it has the same number of petals, and if the stamens and other parts are similar.
Good luck, again!
Jacki
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