Commiphora schimperi

Basic Information

Common Name: Commiphora schimperi
Scientific Name: Commiphora schimperi
Native Habitat: Eastern and Southern Africa (e.g., Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana), and parts of the Arabian Peninsula (e.g., Yemen, Saudi Arabia). It typically grows in dry woodlands, thickets, and rocky areas.

History / Discovery / Cultivator

The genus Commiphora is a large and diverse group of trees and shrubs, predominantly found in arid and semi-arid regions of Africa, Madagascar, the Arabian Peninsula, and India. These plants are perhaps most famous for their aromatic resins, particularly myrrh, derived from species like Commiphora myrrha and Commiphora gileadensis (Balm of Gilead). Commiphora schimperi belongs to this esteemed lineage, known for its often sculptural, peeling bark and adaptation to harsh, dry conditions.

The scientific description of Commiphora schimperi is attributed to Otto Karl Berg, a German botanist specializing in pharmacology and botany. He described the species in 1862 in the journal Botanische Zeitung. The specific epithet “schimperi” honors Wilhelm Schimper, a German botanist and explorer who collected plants extensively in Ethiopia and other parts of Africa in the 19th century. Schimper made significant contributions to the understanding of the flora of these regions, and many plant species bear his name as a tribute to his efforts.

Unlike some of its commercially important myrrh-producing relatives, Commiphora schimperi is not widely known for large-scale resin production for perfumery or medicinal purposes, though like many Commiphora species, it does produce a resinous sap. Its significance lies more in its ecological role within its native dryland ecosystems and increasingly, its appeal to succulent and caudiciform plant collectors worldwide.

Cultivation of Commiphora schimperi outside its native range is primarily driven by enthusiasts drawn to its distinctive appearance. The plant develops a thick, sometimes irregularly shaped trunk (a type of caudex) and often has attractive, peeling bark, revealing layers of contrasting colors underneath, typically shades of green, yellow, or reddish-brown. Its adaptation to drought makes it suitable for xeriscape gardens or cultivation in containers in regions with appropriate climates, or as a greenhouse specimen in cooler areas. Collectors appreciate its architectural form and the challenge of growing these unique plants, which are often slow-growing. There isn’t one single historical figure or modern cultivator who has popularized Commiphora schimperi on a massive scale, but rather a growing community of succulent and caudiciform plant specialists and nurseries who propagate and share these fascinating species. The plant’s appeal is intrinsically linked to the broader interest in bizarre and drought-tolerant plants, a niche that has steadily grown in popularity in recent decades. Propagation is often done from seed or cuttings, though seeds can be slow to germinate and growth rates are generally modest, contributing to its desirability among patient collectors.

Plant Care Summary

Botanical Insights

Adaptations

Commiphora schimperi is highly adapted to survive in arid and semi-arid environments. Its most prominent adaptation is the development of a thick, often swollen trunk or caudex, characteristic of many Commiphora species. This structure serves as a significant water storage organ, allowing the plant to endure prolonged periods of drought. The plant is typically deciduous, shedding its leaves during the dry season to minimize water loss through transpiration. Its peeling bark is another notable feature; while the exact function can vary by species, in many dryland plants, it may help reflect sunlight, regulate temperature, or deter herbivores. The resinous sap, typical of the genus, can also play a role in defense against pests and sealing wounds. Its roots are adapted to efficiently absorb water when it is available, often spreading wide or growing deep.

Propagation Methods

Propagation of Commiphora schimperi is commonly achieved through seeds or stem cuttings.

• Seeds: If viable seeds are available, they should be sown in a well-draining succulent mix. Germination can be variable and sometimes slow. Warm temperatures and moderate moisture are required until seedlings establish.
• Stem Cuttings: This is often a more reliable method. Take cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems during the growing season. Allow the cut end to callous over for several days (or even weeks for thicker cuttings) in a dry, shaded location before planting in a gritty mix. Provide warmth and humidity (e.g., using a plastic bag tent) can aid rooting, but ensure good air circulation to prevent rot. Rooting can take several weeks to months.

Toxicology

Specific detailed toxicological studies on Commiphora schimperi are limited. However, the genus Commiphora is primarily known for its aromatic resins, some of which have historical uses in traditional medicine, perfumery, and incense. While some Commiphora resins (like myrrh) are sometimes used internally in small quantities for medicinal purposes, ingestion of plant material from unverified Commiphora species is generally not recommended. The resinous sap could potentially cause mild irritation to the skin or mucous membranes. Given the lack of specific data for Commiphora schimperi, it is prudent to treat it with caution. It is unlikely to be severely toxic, but ingestion, particularly by pets, could potentially cause mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea) or oral irritation due to the sap or other plant compounds. It is best kept out of reach of pets and young children.

Common Problems

Pests:

• Spider Mites: Especially in hot, dry indoor conditions.
• Scale Insects: Can attach to stems and leaves.
• Mealybugs: May hide in leaf axils or on roots.

Diseases:

• Root Rot: The most common issue, caused by overwatering, especially in cool or dormant periods.
• Stem Rot: Can occur if stems are kept too wet or damaged.

Other:

• Leaf Drop: Normal during dormancy (winter/dry season) or due to stress (overwatering, underweighting, temperature shock).
• Etiolation: Stretched, pale growth due to insufficient light.
• Lack of Growth: Often due to insufficient warmth, light, water during the growing season, or being in dormancy.

Rarity & Value

Rarity:

Commiphora schimperi is not particularly rare in its native habitat. However, in cultivation, mature, well-formed specimens are less common than more widely available succulents. Its rarity in the collector market is primarily due to:

• Slow Growth: It takes many years for a plant to develop a significant caudex and mature structure.
• Specific Care Needs: While drought-tolerant, getting the watering and light correct, especially outside its native climate, requires some experience.
• Propagation: While possible from seed and cuttings, propagation isn’t as rapid or easy as with many other common succulents.
• Niche Appeal: It is primarily sought after by enthusiasts of caudiciform plants and dryland species, rather than mainstream houseplant buyers.

Value:

The market value of Commiphora schimperi specimens is highly variable and depends on several factors:

• Size and Age: Larger, older plants with substantial, well-formed caudices are significantly more valuable than young seedlings or cuttings.
• Shape and Form: Sculptural, interesting trunk shapes are highly prized by collectors.
• Condition: Healthy, disease-free plants fetch higher prices.
• Provenance: Plants grown from reputable nurseries or collectors may command a premium.
• Market Demand: Like all collector plants, value can fluctuate based on current trends and availability within the specialized succulent community. Generally, well-established, mature specimens can command prices ranging from moderate to quite high for exceptional examples.