Gerrardanthus macrorhizus | Stephania Erecta Look-Alike 4-6cm | Rare Caudex Plant | Bare Root

Gerrardanthus macrorhizus is a fascinating caudiciform plant admired for its large textured caudex and elegant climbing vines. Although often mistaken for Stephania Erecta, it is a completely different species with its own unique character and growth habit.

Its beautifully patterned swollen caudex stores water, while fresh green heart-shaped leaves emerge during the growing season, creating an eye-catching bonsai-like appearance. As the plant matures, the caudex becomes increasingly sculptural, making it a favourite among collectors of unusual plants.

This plant is shipped bare root to ensure safer transportation.

✨ Features

• Rare caudex collector plant
• Frequently compared with Stephania Erecta
• Beautiful textured swollen caudex
• Produces attractive climbing vines with heart-shaped leaves
• Excellent conversation piece for plant collectors
• Slow-growing and long-lived specimen
• Every caudex develops a unique natural shape
• Bare root shipped for safe delivery

📏 Specifications

Plant Name: Gerrardanthus macrorhizus (4-6cm)

Common Comparison: Stephania Erecta Look-Alike

Plant Type: Caudex Plant

Family: Cucurbitaceae

Shipping: Bare root (pot and soil not included)

Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

Dormancy: Yes. During dormancy the vines and leaves naturally die back, leaving only the caudex. New growth will emerge again during the next growing season.

🌱 Plant Care Guide

• Place in bright indirect light or gentle morning sunlight.
• Water sparingly while actively growing.
• Allow the soil to dry between waterings.
• During dormancy, reduce watering significantly until new shoots appear.
• Use a very well-draining cactus or caudex soil mix.
• Protect from frost and prolonged cold temperatures.

📦 Shipping Information

To ensure the safest possible transport, this plant is shipped bare root.

The decorative pot shown in the photographs is for display purposes only and is not included.

Please plant the caudex in a free-draining soil mix after arrival and avoid watering immediately.

📝 Please Note

• Gerrardanthus macrorhizus naturally enters a dormant period and may arrive without leaves or vines depending on the season. This is completely normal and the plant will produce new growth when conditions are suitable.
• Every caudex has a unique size, texture and shape.
• Natural markings, corking and minor imperfections are part of the plant's character.
• Photos are representative examples of our stock.
• Measurements are approximate.

Delivery Timescales

We dispatch all orders using a fully tracked express UK delivery service, utilizing a selection of trusted couriers, including Royal Mail, Evri, and DPD. Orders are typically processed and shipped within 1-3 working days (Monday-Thursday), with over 90% dispatched within 2 working days. Whenever possible, items are sent on a 1-2 day delivery service for swift arrival.

Delivery Charges 

Our delivery charges are based on order value, we do not impose a minimum order value. Please see the table below for our current delivery charges.

Shipping Policy