The Boojum tree (Fouquieria columnaris) is one of the most bizarre-appearing plants in the world. Shaped like snakey naked candles or spiny upside down carrots, they never fail to interest observers. Boojums are native to the Sonoran Desert on the west coast of Baja California, and one small area on the Sonora mainland near Puerto Libertad.
A member of the family Fouquieriaceae, boojums are related to Ocotillos. Their "wood" is soft and easily bruised, their epidermis is soft, and their leaves are transitory depending on water supply. In their natural habitat, rains are sporadic but coastal humidity is high. Growth occurs during cooler weather, when water (either winter rains or spring/fall fogs) is more plentiful. Although they can survive for years on little rainfall, relative humidity apparently plays a part in their successful germination and establishment. Flowers and seeds appear regularly in summer and fall.
Now fully protected by the Mexican government, boojums are only available in the US if they've been nursery-grown. Although their selling price can be nearly $1000 per foot, in light of the recent interest, Tucson native plant nurseries have reported an increased interest in seedlings.
All our Boojum's are in 4 inch pots and ready to move up into a larger container.