Commiphora madagascariensis

Basic Information

Common Name: Commiphora madagascariensis
Scientific Name: Commiphora madagascariensis
Native Habitat: Eastern and Southern Africa (including Madagascar, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana), also extending into southwestern Arabia. It typically grows in dry woodlands, scrubland, and rocky outcrops.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The genus Commiphora is perhaps best known globally for its production of aromatic resins, most famously myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) and frankincense (from the related genus Boswellia). While Commiphora madagascariensis is not the primary source of the biblical myrrh, it is one of the many species in this extensive genus (comprising over 180 species) that yields similar fragrant gums and resins. These resins have been used for millennia across Africa, the Middle East, and beyond for incense, perfumery, traditional medicine, and embalming. The widespread distribution of Commiphora species across arid and semi-arid regions of Africa and Arabia points to their deep ecological and cultural integration in these landscapes.

Botanical classification and description of Commiphora madagascariensis specifically would have occurred as part of the broader European exploration and scientific cataloging of flora in Africa and Madagascar during the 18th and 19th centuries. While a single “discoverer” or “cultivator” credited with bringing C. madagascariensis into widespread horticultural popularity is difficult to pinpoint, its cultivation is primarily driven by enthusiasts of caudiciform and succulent plants. These collectors appreciate the plant’s unique growth habit – often developing a swollen base or trunk – and its suitability for arid landscaping or container growing in controlled environments.

The resins from Commiphora madagascariensis and other species in the genus were historically significant trade goods, driving commerce across ancient trade routes like the Incense Route. Indigenous populations across its native range would have long recognized and utilized the plant for its medicinal properties, aromatic resins, or wood. This deep history of use predates formal scientific classification by centuries, if not millennia. Its modern cultivation outside its native range is relatively recent, largely within the last few decades, as the appeal of unusual succulents and caudiciforms has grown among plant hobbyists and specialist nurseries. Cultivators often focus on selecting specimens with particularly attractive caudex development or growth forms. Unlike agricultural staples, the ‘cultivation’ of Commiphora madagascariensis is more about propagation and nurturing individual specimens for their aesthetic qualities rather than large-scale production for resin or other products, though local communities in its native range may still harvest its resin for traditional uses. The plant’s slow growth rate and specific environmental needs mean that commercially large or well-formed specimens in cultivation are highly valued, reflecting the time and expertise required to grow them.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Commiphora madagascariensis is well-adapted to survive in harsh, arid environments. Its most notable adaptation is often the development of a swollen, succulent trunk or caudex. This structure serves as a water storage organ, allowing the plant to endure long periods of drought. The leaves are typically small and compound, reducing the surface area exposed to intense sunlight and minimizing water loss through transpiration. In extreme drought conditions, the plant may shed its leaves entirely to conserve moisture. The bark is often papery and peeling, a common feature in many Commiphora species, possibly offering protection or reducing water absorption/loss from the stem surface. The ability to produce aromatic resins likely serves multiple purposes, including deterring herbivores and potentially sealing wounds to prevent moisture loss and infection.

Propagation Methods

Commiphora madagascariensis can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.

• Seeds: Fresh seeds germinate best. They should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept warm. Germination can be slow and variable. Seed-grown plants are more likely to develop a pronounced caudex than those grown from cuttings.
• Stem Cuttings: This is often the easier and faster method for hobbyists. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems, allowed to callus (dry out) for several days to a week to prevent rot, and then planted in a well-draining, gritty mix. Keep the soil slightly moist (but not wet) until roots develop, which can take several weeks to months. Using rooting hormone can improve success rates. Cuttings generally grow into shrubby plants but may not develop as significant a caudex as seedlings.

Toxicology

Information specifically on the toxicity of Commiphora madagascariensis is less widely documented compared to common houseplants. However, the sap and resin from many Commiphora species, including those used for myrrh and frankincense, contain various compounds (like furanosesquiterpenoids) that can cause mild skin irritation or contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals upon contact. If ingested, particularly large quantities, the resins could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset. Compared to plants with potent toxins (like oleander or lilies), Commiphora madagascariensis is generally considered to have low toxicity. However, it is always best practice to keep plants out of reach of curious pets and small children, and to avoid ingesting plant parts or sap. Symptoms of ingestion would likely be limited to minor digestive distress, if any.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider Mites: Can occur in dry, warm conditions, causing stippling on leaves.
• Mealybugs: Small, cottony insects that hide in crevices, feeding on sap.
• Scale Insects: Appear as small bumps on stems and branches, also sap-feeders.

Diseases:

• Root Rot: The most common and serious problem, caused by overwatering or poor drainage, leading to fungal infections in the roots and caudex.
• Stem Rot: Can occur if the stem is kept too wet, especially near the soil line.

Other:

• Etiolation: Stems becoming long and stretched with sparse leaves due to insufficient light.
• Leaf Drop: Often a natural response to drought or cool temperatures, but can also indicate stress from overwatering or pests.
• Caudex Shrinking/Softening: Indicates either extreme underwatering (plant using stored reserves) or potentially the beginning of root/caudex rot (tissue breakdown).

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Commiphora madagascariensis is not necessarily rare in its native habitat, being quite widespread in certain regions. However, well-formed, mature specimens with a significant caudex can be considered somewhat rare in cultivation outside of specialist collections and nurseries. This is primarily due to its relatively slow growth rate and the time it takes to develop a large, attractive caudex from seed or a substantial cutting. Finding large, established specimens requires searching specialist growers or collectors.

Value:

The market value of a Commiphora madagascariensis specimen is primarily influenced by:

• Caudex Size and Form: Larger, well-shaped, and significantly swollen caudex bases command higher prices.
• Maturity: Older, more established plants are generally more valuable than young seedlings or cuttings.
• Overall Plant Health and Shape: A healthy plant with attractive branching and structure adds to its value.
• Provenance: Legally and ethically sourced plants are crucial. Wild-collected specimens, if any are still traded, would raise significant ethical and legal concerns and are generally frowned upon or prohibited.
• Current Market Demand: As with many collector plants, popularity trends among succulent and caudiciform enthusiasts can influence price.