Socotra Cucumber Tree: Species & Photography Guide

Of all Socotra endemic plants, Socotra Cucumber Tree (Dendrosicyos socotranus) can be one of the most typical ones, third only to Dragon’s Blood Tree and Socotra Desert Rose (Socotra Bottle Tree). Like these 2 plants, Socotra Cucumber Tree is an endemic species that also uses the succulent trunk to store water to survive. Not just the Cucumber tree, there is a great number of plants and animals that only exist here and cannot be found anywhere else.

That is also the reason why Socotra is celebrated as “the Galápagos of the Indian Ocean”. Located in the northwest Indian Ocean, the island has been separated from the mainland for hundreds of years. The isolated location nurtures Socotra’s unique biodiversity. And it is recognized as a mecca for nature lovers. Here, what you can enjoy is not only the otherworldly landscapes, but also the endemic flora and fauna.

Scroll down, and you can learn more fun facts about the Socotra cucumber tree. To seek an adventure and explore various plants, Socotra Island can rank at the top of your travel bucket list. And a tour to Socotra will not let you down.

What Is the Socotra Cucumber Tree?

Socotra Cucumber Tree has a scientific name of Dendrosicyos socotranus. It is a part of the cucumber family, but the only species growing in a tree form. Featuring a bottle-shaped trunk, it is a giant tree endemic to the Socotra Archipelago. As a member of the weird trees of Socotra, the cucumber tree is quite drought-resistant, with smooth skin, and can usually be seen on the cliff. This kind of plant tends to use the giant trunk to store water to survive in the dry and arid conditions.

Except for the trunk, the leaves of the tree are round, and some are heart-shaped, and will flower when turning 3 years old. It is usually used as a medical treatment on the island for diabetes, urinary problems, and some liver issues.

Scientific Classification of Cucumber Tree Socotra

Socotra Cucumber Tree is also known as D. socotrana, a monotypic genus in Dendrosicyos. The following content can help you scientifically know it better.

Where to See the Cucumber Tree on Socotra

Homhil Protected Area

In the eastern part of Socotra sits Homhil Protected Area, a well-known botanical sanctuary. Featuring the stunning landscapes and diverse endemic flora and fauna, Homhil owns one of the world’s largest and most widespread Dragon Blood Tree forests.

After arriving at the protected area, you need to hike a steep trail that finally leads to the notable Infinity Pool. Along the way, you can also find patches of natural pools tucked into rocks. It allows you to take a refreshing dip in turquoise water to cool off while soaking in the endless ocean views.

During the hike, you can fully explore local biodiversity, like Socotra Cucumber Tree, Dragon Blood Tree, Socotra Bottle Tree, Frankincense trees, etc. And some endemic fauna also inhabit here, which is the main reason why it is recognized as the mecca for birdwatchers.

Dixam Plateau

Dixam Plateau, also known as Diksam Plateau, is a notable limestone plateau lying between the southern coastal plain and Socotra Hajhir Mountains. It is located in the central area of Socotra Island and is considered the Dragon’s Blood Tree Sanctuary, as it has the Firmihin Forest, the largest Dragon’s Blood Tree forest in the world. Apart from that, it can also find the Cucumber Trees and other Socotra endemic plants.

If you are about to start a journey to Socotra, Dixam Plateau can be a must-see in your Socotra itinerary, and you will spend a night camping there. You can gain an immersive camping experience and explore the endemic plants while hiking.

Wadi Druher Canyon

Wadi Druher Canyon (Wadi Dirhur Canyon/Diksam Canyon) is a dramatic and deep limestone canyon in Socotra, cutting through Socotra’s central mountain areas between Diksam Plateau and Firmihin Forest. With lush vegetation, it allows you to catch a glimpse of geographical wonders and a unique ecosystem, as the gorge is also a biodiversity hotspot. What you can explore is further than Socotra Cucumber Trees. Freshwater streams, natural pools, and date palm groves make you lose yourself in this natural oasis.

To seek contrasting views, Aomak (also spelled as Aomaq or Oamak) Beach can fit your needs. It is located in the southern and central regions of Socotra, adjacent to Wadi Dirhur Canyon. In this striking coastline, you can enjoy ultimate serenity and untouched beauty, composed of white sand, turquoise water, and a dramatic cliff.

Road from Hadibo → Homhil (easy roadside spotting)

The first succulents appear along this scenic road from Hadibo, the capital city, to the Homhil protected area. You can capture these decent specimens right from the vehicle if short on time, and some of them are just randomly scattered on the rocky cliffs.

Cliffs near Shuab Beach

Shoab Beach (Shuab Beach) is a pristine beach in the northwest of Socotra. Boasting a striking white-sand beach and crystal-clear, emerald water, it is regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

To get to the beach, it is only accessible by boat from the Qalansiya fishing village, the second largest city in Socotra. During the boat ride, you can not only spot the trees scattered on the cliffs, but also encounter groups of dolphins jumping out of the water.

You can not just admire the stunning landscapes; the beach’s prime water conditions allow you to experience snorkeling to explore the magical undersea world with a great number of marine creatures.

Momi Plateau

Momi Plateau is a rocky and expansive limestone area, situated in the eastern part of Socotra. As one of the habitats for the Cucumber Trees Socotra, it is covered with the trees and other kinds of rare plants, like Dragon’s Blood Trees and Socotra Desert Roses. In addition to that, you can also discover some incredible lagoons, creating a picturesque scene with surrounding mountains and diverse Socotra floras.

Best Time to Visit

October to April is the best time to visit Socotra and also the peak tourism season. February to March can be the best time to explore Socotra Cucumber Tree and other endemic species, like Socotra Desert Rose and Dragon Blood Trees. They are at their green and in full blossom during the period, when you can also travel with pleasant weather and enjoy various water sports in stable sea conditions.

How to Get to Socotra

To reach Socotra, travelers must book a Socotra guided tour through an authorized local tour operator, as an independent tour to Socotra is not allowed. The direct flights departing from Jeddah and flights from Cairo via Aden to Socotra are currently the 2 main ways to get to Socotra. A direct flight from Jeddah costs about $1,100 USD for a round trip and operates once weekly. And the cost of a Socotra flight from Cairo to Aden starts from about $1,100.

These Socotra flights will be included in your Socotra tour package, together with your visa, ground transports, and accommodation. When you land on the island, a 4WD plays an important role in your Socotra tours, which can take you to almost every attraction spot.

Ecology and Role in Socotra's Ecosystem

The growth of Cucumber Tree seedlings relies on the bush and surrounding shrublands, as they need protection from overgrazing by goats and other livestock. When growing up, their recovery also depends on Cissus after the drought. These Socotra endemic trees tend to grow next to Adenium socotranum and Croton socotranus. And they form the unique landscapes and vegetation together. As to the local community, it is usually used as a feed for livestock during the prolonged drought and seen as a traditional medicine on Socotra Island.

Why Is It Called the Cucumber Tree?

The major reason why it is called the Cucumber Tree is that it is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, like regular garden cucumbers, pumpkins, squashes, and melons. And it is the only tree-like member in this big family. Aside from its classification, it also owed this to the fruits. At the beginning, it produces green fruits, and then they will turn brick-red when mature. And those fruits also look like cucumbers, no matter the shape or size.

Is the Socotra Cucumber Tree Endangered?

Cucumber Tree Socotra has been considered an endangered species and listed as a vulnerable species by IUCN, which only exists on Socotra Island and can be found nowhere else. It faces existential threats. It is used as an emergency forage during the drought period and is overgrazed by goats and livestock.

Socotra Bottle Tree vs Cucumber Tree

It seems like both Socotra Bottle Tree and Cucumber Tree have thick, bottle-shaped trunks. As a matter of fact, they differ from each other in many ways, like class and appearance. The table below will offer you a more detailed comparison between these 2 Socotra endemic trees.

FAQs about Socotra Cucumber Trees

1. Is the Socotra cucumber tree edible?

Yes, as a native species, Socotra Cucumber tree is edible, growing on the cliff. This plant is not poisonous and can be eaten by goats.

2. How tall does the Socotra cucumber tree grow?

Socotra cucumber tree belongs to a succulent-stemmed tree, growing up to 3-6 meters (10-20 feet) high.

3. Why is the cucumber tree only found on Socotra?

Due to Socotra’s geographical isolation from the mainland, the endemic species on the island, like Socotra Cucumber Tree, evolve and don’t have to compete with other Socotra flora on the mainland.

4. Is the cucumber tree related to actual cucumbers?

The Cucumber Tree and the actual cucumber belong to the same Cucurbitaceae family, also including melons, pumpkins, and squash. They are vines and trailing herbs. But the Cucumbers Tree is the only one that grows as an actual tree in this family.

5. How can I help protect the Socotra cucumber tree?

You can support responsible tour operators on Socotra, like Wild Socotra Tours, and buy some local products to support local sustainable tourism. Take all the trash away to protect the environment. Also, avoid disturbing any protective means and keep away from the overgrazing areas.

Plan Your Socotra Adventure with Wild Socotra Tours

From kinds of stunning landscapes to diverse endemic species, you can catch a glimpse of Socotra Island from different perspectives. As a paradise for nature lovers, the isle of Socotra is perfect for plant exploration.