Cyphostemma juttae aka Bastard Cobas

Cyphostemma juttae is a succulent shrub in the grape family, Vitaceae. Its common names include Namibian grape and elephant's foot. It comes from northwestern and north-central Namibia. There, it grows among rocks in hot, dry places. Its habitat includes desert, dry shrubland, and open woodland. Wild plants seem to favour sites with dolomite rock. Collecting may be causing wild numbers to fall.

The plant grows slowly and forms a thick, swollen trunk. This water-storing stem is called a caudex. It usually reaches about 6.6 feet [2 metres] tall. Some plants reach 13.1 feet [4 metres]. The trunk can grow 3.3 feet [1 metre] thick. Plants may have one main trunk or several swollen stems. A few stout branches form a spreading crown above it. White bark peels in thin sheets from the yellow-green wood. This pale bark reflects sunlight and helps keep stems cool.

Thick, blue-green leaves cluster at the ends of branches. New leaves emerge purple in spring, then change colour. Young plants bear single leaves with deep lobes. Older plants may form trifoliolate leaves, each with three leaflets. The leaf stalks develop broad wings as plants mature. Leaf edges have teeth, and the blades break with little force. The plant drops its leaves as winter approaches. Severe drought can also cause it to shed leaves. Small greenish or cream-yellow flowers appear in early summer. Clusters of grape-like fruits follow, changing colour as they ripen. They pass through yellow, red, or purple shades toward near-black. Do not eat them: the source reports toxic tannin levels.

Grow it in a rich cactus mix that drains fast. Sandy or loamy ground also suits it where drainage is good. It survives drought but benefits from water during summer growth. Keep it dry in winter to reduce the risk of rot. Too much water can kill the plant. In wet climates, a large pot allows moves under shelter. Hot sites may need afternoon shade to prevent leaf scorch. Mature plants may withstand brief cold near 27°F [-3°C]. Avoid frost, above all while plants are young.

Its swollen trunk and seasonal leaves make it a specimen plant. It suits greenhouse growing and outdoor gardens with Mediterranean climates. LLIFLE describes it as easy to grow despite its slow pace. Growers can raise it from seeds or cuttings. Seeds may sprout poorly, even after preparation. Warm, sterile growing media help with this slow process.