Pachypodium lamerei aka Madagascar Palm
Taxonomy
Pachypodium lamerei, also known as the Madagascar palm, is a species of succulent plant in the family Apocynaceae. Native to southern Madagascar, it is not actually a palm tree but is often marketed as one. This stem succulent has thick thorny stems and a cluster of narrow leaves near the top. It primarily photosynthesizes through its trunk and is relatively easy to propagate and grow. The plant is known for its large, fragrant flowers with yellow-throated white petals, which bloom in clusters during the summer. While it typically grows 4 to 6 feet indoors and up to 15 feet outdoors, a variety called "Ramosum" has a dwarf growth habit and more rounded corolla lobes. With its engaging appearance and ability to thrive in sun-filled rooms, the Madagascar palm is a popular choice for both outdoor landscapes and indoor houseplants.
Common names
Madagascar PalmHow to care for Madagascar Palm
Difficulty
If you're looking for a plant that offers a moderate level of challenge, Madagascar Palm is a great choice to test your gardening skills.
Water
Madagascar Palm does best in dry soil and should only be watered sparingly.
Soil
Madagascar Palm loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
To ensure optimal growth, the Madagascar Palm prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
Dormancy
During the cold period, it is common for Madagascar Palm to go dormant, resulting in a slowdown of growth. To accommodate this, waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
Madagascar Palm is poisonous if ingested. We suggest keeping this plant out of reach if you have children, cats, or dogs in the home.
Humidity
Madagascar Palm plants thrive in dry environments, however, if you choose to provide extra humidity or mist your plant, the lingering water on the leaves can create an ideal environment for certain types of harmful fungi.
Fertilizer
The Madagascar Palm grows at a slow pace and doesn't require any supplementary fertilizers. By renewing its potting soil once a year, it should receive enough nourishment. Remember, plants obtain their energy from sunlight, not fertilizers.
Growth-pattern
New growth will sprout from the top of the Madagascar Palm as it grows vertically.
Region of origin
Madagascar Palm’s native range is Madagascar and Africa.
Flower
Yes, if you provide your Madagascar Palm with adequate sunlight and water, you can expect it to bloom.
More info:
Wikipedia
More Species in Pachypodium Genus
Pachypodium densiflorum
Pachypodium makayense Lavaranos
Pachypodium inopinatum Sausage Tree
Pachypodium baronii Madagascar Palm
Pachypodium rosulatum Elephant's Foot
Pachypodium namaquanum Elephant's Trunk
Pachypodium saundersii Impala Lily
Pachypodium geayi Madagascar Palm
Pachypodium sofiense Pachypodium Sofiense
