Sarcocaulon vanderietiae is one of the faster-growing and more forgiving members of the so-called “Bushmen’s Candles,” a name tied to the allegedly flammable remains that collect across parts of coastal Namibia and South Africa. The genus is known for its uniform, prostrate branching and for experimenting with an unusual range of armaments and foliage, much of which seems to have worked well enough to persist in barren, over-grazed landscapes. This species grows thinner, less tree-like branches that harden with age but expand quickly when conditions allow. For vanderietiae, those conditions are far less narrow than in many of its relatives, which are often regarded as touchy and strictly winter-growing. Because of this flexibility, we’ve found it to be an excellent beginner caudiciform for anyone drawn to the low, branching, natural bonsai look. It’s also one of the better candidates in the genus for drought-tolerant landscaping, where a young plant can become a substantial accent nestled among rocks in relatively little time. The genus is closely related to Pelargoniums and Geraniums, and was recently placed in Monsonia alongside a set of morphologically distinct annuals, a reclassification that remains debated and not widely followed. The most obvious point of connection is the flowers, which in this group are some of the most attractive. S. vanderietiae has some of the largest, with vivid white petals and an eagerness to flower generously.