Madagascar Palm
pachypodium lamerei
Also known as: ["Madagascar Palm","Madagascar Spine Tree"]
Overview
A succulent tree native to Madagascar, characterized by a thick, spiny trunk and pinnate leaves at the top.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Pachypodium |
| Botanical Name: | Pachypodium lamerei |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot near bright window or outdoor in frost-free, sunny location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or when deadwood is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with bright, direct light; adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching midday sun; place in a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid low-light conditions.
Watering
every 7–14 days during growing season, reduce to monthly in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; reduce water during dormancy.
Soil
fast-draining cactus mix with added perlite or sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils.
Temperature
Prefers 70–85°F (21–29°C) during active growth; tolerates 50–60°F (10–15°C) in winter dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced cactus fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take several months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, perlite, cactus soil, plastic wrap, heat mat.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with plastic wrap; use rooting hormone for better success.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back dead or leggy stems; shape the plant carefully to maintain its natural form.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape carefully; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant carefully; trim any dead roots; repot in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare well-draining soil; handle roots gently; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting the trunk or leaves; ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly during spring and summer, allowing soil to dry out between waterings; reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to mimic dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in cold; stunted growth or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet; can lead to leaf drop or dieback.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; protect from drafts and cold windows.
Hot Stress
Can cause sunburn, wilting, or scorching of leaves; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicThe sap of Pachypodium lamerei is toxic to cats, leading to gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation. The spines pose a physical hazard, potentially causing injury and secondary infections.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten or touched
Dogs
ToxicThe sap of Pachypodium lamerei is toxic to dogs, causing gastrointestinal upset and skin irritation. The spines can cause physical injury, potentially leading to infections if not treated promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten or touched
Humans
ToxicThe milky sap of Pachypodium lamerei contains diterpene esters, which are known to cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The spines can cause physical injury, leading to secondary infections if not properly cleaned.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten or touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pachypodium lamerei toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Pachypodium lamerei?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings, especially in winter.
Q: Can Pachypodium lamerei be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in bright, indirect light with good drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
