Introducing the Madagascar palm, also known as Pachypodium lamerei. This unusual Pachypodium lamerei is sure to spark conversation with its adorable, grey-green leaves and eye-catching white flowers. Madagascar palm is actually a succulent, not a true palm, despite popular belief. 

Pachypodium, which means "thick foot," refers to the plant's thick, swollen stem, which stores water and provides structure and strength to the Madagascar Palm. There are several species, but the two most common are Pachypodium lamerei and Pachypodium geayi.   

Native to Southwest Madagascar, your Pachypodium lamerei Madagascar Palms can reach 24 feet tall and 10 feet wide at maturity and are sure to make a statement wherever they're planted.

The trumpet-shaped flowers of the Madagascar Palm Pachypodium lamerei, add a touch of exotic beauty to any space from late spring to summer.

During this bloom time, you can expect to see clusters of vibrant, white, yellow, red, pink, or cream-colored flowers with a delightful fragrance.

Outdoor Madagascar palms are more likely to produce flowers than indoor ones, so use NPK fertilizer in the early spring and prune damaged branches for better blooming.

So, if you're seeking to add a little bit of flair to your indoor or outdoor space, then read on to learn how to care about the stunning Madagascar palm tree.

When and How to Water Your Madagascar Palm  

The Madagascar palm succulent needs moderate watering, especially during its first season in a new planting container. These succulents need regular watering to keep the soil moist but not too wet.

Overwatering should be avoided at all costs, as the Madagascar palm is highly vulnerable to root rot if kept in constantly damp soil. It's important to allow the soil to completely dry out between each watering, and if you're unsure whether it's time for another drink, err on the side of caution and give it some extra time.

Although desert succulents can survive months without water, pay close attention to this little plant's specific watering needs, and you'll be able to keep your drought-tolerant Madagascar palm healthy and happy for years to come!

Light Requirements - Where to Place Your Madagascar Palm

When growing your Madagascar palm Pachypodium lamerei indoors, it prefers bright, indirect light.

Placing it near a window where it can receive plenty of filtered sunlight is ideal. However, be cautious when placing it in direct sunlight, as it can scorch the leaves.

If you notice the leaves turning yellow or brown, it may be a sign that the plant is receiving too much direct sunlight. Consider moving the plant to a location with more shade to prevent further damage.

If you're growing your Madagascar palm outdoors, it is important to grow Pachypodium species in areas that receive at least 4-6 hours of bright, direct light every day to keep them happy. New plants can get burned in the full sun as they were probably grown in a greenhouse; therefore, gradually increase their exposure to sunlight.

Remember, like most succulents, the Madagascar palm requires plenty of sun exposure and should be grown in either full sun or partial shade.  If the sun is too bright and is burning your plant's leaves, consider purchasing a sunshade or moving the plant to a more shaded location.

Optimal soil & Fertilizers Needs 

Are you ready to take your Madagascar palm plant game to the next level?  When it comes to choosing the right soil and fertilizers for your adorable succulent, you need to be extra cautious and use the right kind of soil mix and a container with drainage holes to prevent root rot. Moisture can be a real killer, leading to root and stem rot in no time. But fear not, my fellow green thumbs! Planet Desert has got your back with our specialized potting mix that includes organic mycorrhizae, perfect for promoting healthy roots and happy Madagascar palm plants.

When it comes to fertilizing your Pachypodium lamerei, remember that less is more. A small amount of organic fertilizer once a year in the spring will do wonders for your plant's health and growth. Using organic fertilizers with an approximate blend of 5-10-5 (NPK) that is higher in phosphorus than nitrogen also ensures that other beneficial compounds and microbes are added to the soil without the use of harsh chemicals. Show your Madagascar palm some love with awesome natural fertilizer and watch it thrive.

Hardiness Zone & More 

If growing indoors, this Pachypodium lamerei prefers a warm environment, ideally between 65°F and 80°F. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it's best to avoid drafts or extreme temperature fluctuations.

If you live in USDA zones 9–11 year-round, you can grow your Madagascar palm outdoors. These zones generally experience mild winters with temperatures ranging from 30°F to 40°F and above. However, if you live in a region with colder temperatures, you can still enjoy this plant by growing it in a container and bringing it indoors during the winter months.

Madagascar palms are hardy plants that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels. Native to the arid regions of Madagascar, in their natural habitat, they are well-suited to dry, desert-like conditions.

Propagating the Pachypodium lamerei Madagascar Palm 

To propagate Madagascar palm Pachypodium lamerei, one common method is by stem cuttings. You can take a stem cutting from a healthy, mature plant, let it dry for a few days to form a callus, and then plant it in well-draining soil.

Another method is propagation by seeds. You can collect the seeds from a mature Madagascar palm and sow them in a suitable potting mix. Keep the soil slightly moist and provide warmth and a bright, indirect, sunny spot for germination. Both methods require some patience and care, but with a little bit of love, you can successfully propagate your own Madagascar palms.

Key Takeaways