Madagascar palm: a storage trunk beneath a green leaf crown

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A succulent with a palm-like silhouette

A thickened grey trunk and the leaf crown at its tip give Pachypodium lamerei its name Madagascar palm. Botanically, the species belongs to the dogbane family, not palms. The trunk carries strong spines and stores water. Narrow green leaves sit mainly at the top. Over years the plant may become substantially larger. A young plant is therefore a long-term companion whose space needs grow too. Its Madagascar origin explains the need for bright warm frost-free cultivation.

Delivery size needs a close look

The shop description states about 25 to 30 cm overall height. Title and description contradict each other on pot size, stating 12 and 9 cm respectively. Clarify this figure in the shop before ordering. Original photographs show several plants in stock and a trunk detail; this does not constitute a plant set. A small stable position is initially enough for the individual young Madagascar palm. Place it so nobody must brush past spines and enough movement space remains for watering.

Brightness and warmth as the foundation

Choose a very bright position with as much light as possible. Acclimatise slowly to direct sun rather than immediately switching to hot midday sun after transport. A warm sheltered summer position outdoors is possible if cold nights or prolonged wetness do not threaten. The RHS classes the species as a warmth-demanding greenhouse plant. A bright warm room is the safe starting point for winter cultivation. An unheated near-freezing garage is as unsuitable as a dark storeroom.

Supply growth and rest differently

While the plant is actively growing with foliage, water moderately after the root ball dries well. Surplus must drain. In winter or clear rest, demand falls substantially; a leafless resting plant should stay very dry. Actual development matters, not a fixed date. If leaves fall, first assess light, temperature and moisture. More water is not automatically the solution. Black leaf tips alone do not prove a particular cause either; persistent wetness, cold and other stresses must be considered together.

A stable pot with well-drained soil

Use a well-drained succulent mix and a container with drainage. A decorative heavy cover may help prevent tipping but must not collect water. During active growth, feed sparingly with suitable fertiliser following product instructions. Pause at rest. Repot only when roots, stability or compost require it. Protect hands and forearms from spines and do not squeeze the trunk with bare hands. The new container must suit root mass; an oversized wet soil reserve is no growth advantage.

Do not hastily prune the trunk tip

Healthy upright structure normally needs no pruning. Removing a young plant’s tip purely for shaping creates a large injury and is not necessary for better growth. Instead, regularly check the base for soft areas and young leaves for pests. A firm trunk base and new growth during the growing phase are good observation points. Flowers are possible on older specimens in suitable conditions, but are not guaranteed on this young plant. Plant parts are not eaten or used as home remedies.

One plant, several views

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