Care for Elephant Trees

Elephant trees are a rare part of the larger tropical plant family Torchwood, which is the one fact that makes them so unusual. These trees are found in the deserts of California, Arizona and northwest Mexico, which is not the climate one might expect. Their name comes from the shape of the trunk and limbs, which are similar to elephant feet and trunks. If you happen to be in a position to care for one, there is little to be done to maintain it.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic or burlap sheets
• Outdoor heater
• Pruning saw or tree trimmer

Instructions

1. Watch for signs of water need, such as the plant dropping its leaves. Water no more than once a week to dampen the soil to a depth of 2 or 3 inches, but it will do fine with water once every two weeks.

2. Cover the elephant tree with a plastic or burlap sheet if extreme cold weather is predicted. The shrub is accustomed to some nighttime cold but doesn't hold up well to freezing temperatures over long periods. If the tree is tall, outdoor electric heaters hooked up to a generator may help.

3. Plant in similar soil if the elephant tree must be moved. Move the tree while it is small and easy to dig up.

4. Trim out dead limbs with a tree trimmer. Saw them off near the trunk. If you are caring for a younger plant, pruning snips or loppers should suffice.

References

• Sierra Club: Rare Plants - Elephant Trees; Craig H. Reiser; May 1994
• Cal Flora: Elephant Trees
• Ocean Oasis: Elephant Trees; Bob Lauri; 2000
• Desert USA: Elephant Trees