How to Prune a Too-Tall Madagascar Palm (Pachypodium)

A 12-foot Madagascar palm (Pachypodium lamerei) brushing the ceiling needs strategic pruning—not just topping—to maintain a manageable, attractive shape. The good news: it responds well to hard pruning and can be propagated from the cuttings.

Step-by-Step Pruning & Propagation

1. Cut back to a lower branch. Use a sharp knife and heavy-duty pruners. Make a clean cut just above a node or side branch.
2. Root the top section. Let the cut end callus for 10 days, then pot in cactus/succulent mix. Place in a sunny window; roots typically form in 3–4 weeks.
3. Encourage new growth on the base. The remaining trunk will sprout 1–2 side shoots below the cut. In a year or two, you can prune those to keep the plant compact.
4. Prevent future height issues. Once a new top reaches 3–5 feet, pinch off the growing tip (top ¼ inch) to force branching and maintain a shorter, bushier form.

Key Tips

• Always use clean, sharp tools to avoid disease.
• Wear gloves—the sap is irritating.
• Provide maximum sun after pruning to fuel regrowth.
• Water sparingly until new roots establish.

Regular, proactive pruning is far easier than drastic reduction later. With this approach, your Madagascar palm stays a stunning, manageable specimen for years.