Madagascar Palm
pachypodium geayi
Also known as: ["Madagascar Palm","Pachypodium geayi"]
Overview
A succulent plant native to Madagascar, characterized by a thick, spiny trunk and sparse, deciduous leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Genus: | Pachypodium |
| Botanical Name: | Pachypodium geayi |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Succulents & Cacti
- Suitable Location: indoor pot in bright, sunny location or outdoor in frost-free, well-drained soil
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C, tolerates brief dips to 5°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9b–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or coarse sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shape or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates intense light but benefits from slight afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from scorching; indoors, place near a south-facing window with unobstructed light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains if light is too harsh; avoid shaded spots.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce to every 3–4 weeks in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; reduce watering in dormancy.
Soil
fast-draining, sandy cactus mix with minimal organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use unglazed clay pots for better aeration; avoid peat-heavy mixes; ensure soil dries between waterings.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F/10°C but prefers stable warmth.
Avoid drafty areas; protect from frost; maintain stable temperatures during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 weeks during active growth with diluted cactus fertilizer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for 1–2 days.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not wet.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F/21–27°C), humid (60–70%), and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and coarse sand or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone powder for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 4–8 weeks; establishment can take 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; avoid overwatering; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a node or branch junction; wear gloves to avoid skin irritation from sap.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning; focus on removing dead or damaged stems to maintain shape and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; cut at an angle; remove only dead/damaged growth; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure the caudex is above soil level.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water exits the pot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during winter (every 4–6 weeks), increasing to every 1–2 weeks in spring/summer when actively growing; allow soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to commercial potting soil to enhance drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; wilting or sunburn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes root rot, and may lead to dieback if temperatures remain below 50°F/10°C.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pot; reduce watering; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, dehydration, and may trigger premature dormancy if temperatures exceed 90°F/32°C.
Solution: Provide partial shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks in spring/summer; cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicPachypodium geayi is toxic to cats, with cardenolides posing risks to their gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. Even small amounts can cause significant health issues, and severe cases may be fatal.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe plant is toxic to dogs due to the presence of cardenolides, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and cardiac problems. Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening depending on the amount ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicPachypodium geayi contains toxic compounds, primarily cardenolides, which can have significant physiological effects on humans. Ingestion can lead to severe gastrointestinal distress, cardiac issues, and potentially fatal outcomes in severe cases.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pachypodium geayi toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Pachypodium geayi?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry completely between waterings.
Q: Does Pachypodium geayi flower?
A: Yes, it produces fragrant, white or yellow flowers in spring or summer.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apocynaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
