Pachypodium lamerei – Madagascar Palm

Pachypodium lamerei, commonly known as the Madagascar Palm, is a succulent species native to southern Madagascar, where it grows in open, sunny habitats with sandy, well-drained soils. Despite its common name, it is not a true palm but a spiny-stemmed member of the Apocynaceae family.

The plant develops a tall, thick, grey-green trunk densely covered in sharp spines. At the crown, it produces a cluster of long, narrow, leathery leaves which are shed during dormancy. The trunk acts as a water reservoir, enabling survival through prolonged dry periods. In its natural habitat, it can reach heights of up to 6 m, though it remains smaller in cultivation.

Mature plants produce large, white, fragrant flowers with yellow centres, typically in summer. These blooms are borne near the crown and are pollinated by insects. Flowering is more common in plants grown in warm climates with abundant light.

Care Tips:

• Light: Full sun is essential for strong growth.
• Water: Water thoroughly in the growing season when the soil has dried; keep almost dry in winter.
• Humidity: Low humidity is ideal.
• Media: Use a very free-draining cactus and succulent mix with coarse sand or grit.
• Fertiliser: Feed monthly in spring and summer with a diluted, low-nitrogen fertiliser.
• Temperature: Maintain above 15 °C; protect from frost.
• Repotting: Repot only when necessary, as the plant prefers minimal disturbance.

Additional Notes:

• Known to be toxic