Pachypodium lamerei (Madagascar Palm): Succulent Care, Not a True Palm

A Succulent, Not a Palm

Despite the name Madagascar Palm (or Pachy to fans), Pachypodium is a succulent—closer to cacti than palms. From Madagascar; leaves around the crown inspire the name. Dr. Hessayon calls it "unusual rather than attractive"—looks like a dieting pineapple (yes, really). We agree. Not common in nurseries, but for quirky, easy-going indoor succulent lovers, a perfect match.

Swollen stem grows upward; leaves around crown fall and regrow with age. All parts contain toxic latex sap, but tough hooked spines deter even curious cats. Leaves are vulnerable—unless high on a tall plant, think carefully if pets are present. Several species; easiest and most common is Pachypodium lamerei. Sometimes confused with Adenium (Desert Rose), but Pachypodium rarely flowers in cultivation and looks distinct side-by-side.

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Pachypodium Plant Care Instructions

Light

Always pick the sunniest spot.

Watering

A common myth about succulents is that they do not need much water

Myth: succulents need little water. They survive drought but won't thrive. Water liberally in summer whenever soil dries. Winter: water sparingly.

Humidity

Unimportant.

Feeding

Not a heavy feeder—fertilize a few times yearly max, only in active growth.

Temperature

Warm. Winter minimum 10 °C / 50 °F.

Repotting

Slow to outgrow pots. Repot if wobbling/toppling from top-heaviness. Standard soil mix fine; add grit for extra drainage. Any time of year, but handle carefully—spines hurt if you grab wrong.

Propagation

Courageous readers may try removing/potting offsets at base. Very difficult for average owners to succeed.

Growth Rate

Slow. More growth in summer with good water/light.

Size

Native: staggering heights. Cultivation: restrained. After many years, stem up to 4 ft / 1.2 m tall, 24 in / 60 cm diameter.

Flowers

Rare indoors—needs maturity and height. Exceptions exist: white, numerous, star-shaped if achieved.

Extra Note

Highly adaptive—tolerates wide temperature/light changes. Our instructions grow a good specimen, but even occasional neglect keeps it alive long-term.

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