Saving a Rotting Madagascar Palm (Pachypodium): Cutting, Callusing, and Rooting Protocol

Urgency: Pachypodiums Are Difficult to Root

Success rates are lower than cacti/euphorbias. Act fast and precisely.

Cutting Procedure

1. Cut 3–4 inches above highest rot (soft, brown tissue).
2. Inspect cut face: any brown/black spots? Recut 3–4 inches higher. Repeat until clean.
3. Sterilize blade with alcohol between EVERY cut.
4. Cut at slight angle to shed water.

Callusing & Rooting

• Callus 3–4 weeks minimum in shade, warm (70–80°F), good airflow.
• Mix: 60% coarse sand / 40% cactus mix.
• Plant 3–4 inches deep; stake firmly.
• Water once at planting; then ONLY when soil is completely dry.
• Bright indirect light; no direct sun until rooted.

Addressing the Cause

Install gutter/drainage to divert runoff. Pachypodiums hate wet feet. Consider raised bed or large pot with extra drainage for replanting.