Palms | Plants

The Madagascar Palm, scientifically known as Pachypodium lamerei, is a unique and striking succulent known for its tall, spiny trunk and rosette of long, slender leaves at the top. Despite its common name, the Madagascar Palm is not a true palm but rather a member of the succulent family. Its thick, thorn-covered trunk stores water, allowing it to thrive in hot, dry environments, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance indoor or outdoor gardens. With its unusual appearance and ability to adapt to a variety of conditions, the Madagascar Palm adds an exotic touch to any space.

Type of Light: Full Sun to Bright, Indirect Light
The Madagascar Palm thrives in full sun to bright, indirect light. Outdoors, it grows best in full sunlight, while indoors, place it near a window where it can receive plenty of bright light. Avoid placing it in low light areas, as this may stunt its growth.

Watering: Low Water Requirement
As a drought-tolerant succulent, the Madagascar Palm prefers infrequent watering. Water it when the top few inches of soil are dry, typically every 2-3 weeks during the warmer months. Be sure to allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as overwatering can lead to root rot. In the cooler months, reduce watering further as the plant enters dormancy.

Companion Planting:
The Madagascar Palm pairs well with other succulents and drought-tolerant plants such as Aloe, Agave, and Echeveria. For a desert-inspired garden, it can be combined with Golden Barrel Cactus or Ocotillo. These companions thrive in similar low-water and high-light conditions, creating a visually appealing and easy-care landscape.