Madagascar palm (Pachypodium lamerei)
Care, watering, light and tips for Madagascar palm on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Apocynaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
- Toxicity: Toxic to pets
About Madagascar palm
Pachypodium lamerei, also known as the Madagascar Palm, is a shrubby succulent with a thick, spiny stem that stores water, topped with elongated, glossy leaves. Despite its name, it is not a true palm, but its exotic appearance makes it a striking focal point in xeriscape gardens or as a large potted houseplant. Its fragrant white flowers add extra appeal in summer.
Native range
Madagascar
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Watering should be moderate during the growing season, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, and very sparse or none in winter when it goes dormant and loses its leaves. Use a very well-draining substrate, specifically for cacti and succulents; the most common mistake is overwatering, which leads to stem rot.
How to save a dying Madagascar palm
- Warning signs
- Soft or rotting stem, yellow or dropping leaves.
- First aid
- Remove plant, inspect roots. Cut soft parts with clean knife. Let dry 2-3 days.
- What kills it
- Overwatering, especially in winter. Substrate that retains too much moisture.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if rot hasn't advanced far into the main stem. Requires quick action.