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PlantSnap
Plant Care
Madagascar palm
(Pachypodium lamerei)
Also Known As
Madagascar palm, Madagascar spiny tree, Bottle tree
About This Plant
Pachypodium lamerei is a succulent plant species native to Madagascar. It has a thick, greyish-brown stem that can reach up to 6 meters (20 feet) in height and 30-60 cm (12-24 inches) in diameter. The stem is covered in sharp thorns and topped with a rosette of long, narrow leaves. In the wild, Pachypodium lamerei produces large, white, trumpet-shaped flowers.
Plant Care Instructions
Outdoor Size Range
Up to 20 feet (6 meters)
Light Requirements
Pachypodium lamerei prefers bright, direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day. It can tolerate some shade, but too little light can cause the stem to become elongated and weak.
Humidity Needs
Pachypodium lamerei prefers low humidity levels and can tolerate dry air. High humidity can lead to fungal infections and other problems.
Fertilizing Schedule
During the growing season, feed Pachypodium lamerei with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks. In the winter, stop fertilizing altogether. Too much fertilizer can cause the stem to become soft and weak.
Pruning Guidelines
Pachypodium lamerei does not require pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged leaves or branches as needed.
Common Pests and Diseases
Common pests for Pachypodium lamerei include mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. It is also susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Indoor Size Range
36-60 inches (91-152 cm)
Watering Schedule
During the growing season, water Pachypodium lamerei thoroughly and then allow the soil to dry out completely before watering again. In the winter, reduce watering to once every 3-4 weeks. This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water.
Temperature Range
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) for short periods, but prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can be fatal.
Growing Season
Pachypodium lamerei grows best in the spring and summer months when temperatures are warm and days are long.
Growing Difficulty Level
Pachypodium lamerei is considered moderately difficult to grow. It requires bright, direct sunlight and well-draining soil. It is drought-tolerant but can be sensitive to overwatering and cold temperatures.
USDA Hardiness Zones
Pachypodium lamerei is not frost-tolerant and is best grown in USDA hardiness zones 10-12.
Did You Know?
Pachypodium lamerei is also known as the 'Madagascar Palm' even though it is not a true palm tree. It is a member of the Apocynaceae family, which also includes the popular houseplant, the rubber tree (Ficus elastica).
