Pachypodium lamerei – the majestic Madagascar palm

Pachypodium lamerei , often called the Madagascar palm, is a striking succulent with an exotic appearance. Despite its name, it is not a true palm, but a member of the Apocynaceae family, closely related to succulents. This unique plant is popular for its robust, trunk-like structure, spiky trunk, and elegant flowers, making it a real eye-catcher in gardens, conservatories, and indoor collections alike.

Description and growth form – sculptural and striking

Pachypodium lamerei has a thick, cylindrical trunk that stores water, making it resistant to dry spells. The trunk is covered with conical spines, a natural defense against herbivores in its native habitat in Madagascar. Atop the trunk grows a crown of narrow, lance-shaped leaves, which are glossy green in summer.

Under optimal conditions, the plant can reach up to 6 meters tall outdoors, while in pots it usually reaches 2–3 meters. The hardy, sturdy trunk gives the plant a sculptural character, ideal for a tropical look in the garden, conservatory, or living room.

Flowering and ornamental value – exotic flowers

Pachypodium lamerei produces large, white flowers with a yellow center in summer, giving them an exotic, tropical look. The flowers usually appear at the end of the stem, surrounded by foliage, and attract insects for pollination. The blooms add an extra dimension to the plant's ornamental value, especially in sunny patios, conservatories, or tropical garden designs.

Cultivation and care – easy but light-sensitive

Pachypodium lamerei is a relatively easy houseplant or garden plant, provided that a few basic conditions are met:

• Light: full sun or very bright position; likes at least 6 hours of sun per day.

• Temperature: Tropical preference; not hardy below 10°C. Indoors, the plant can winter at 12–18°C.

• Soil: Well-drained sandy or cactus soil; avoid wet, clayey soil.

• Watering: moderate during the growth period (spring-summer), almost dry during the dormant period (autumn-winter).

• Feeding: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a cactus or succulent food.

Regular repotting is only necessary when the plant outgrows its pot; always use well-draining soil to prevent root rot.

Application and benefits

• Ornamental value: exotic appearance, sculptural trunk and spiky details make the plant an eye-catcher.

• Indoors and outdoors: suitable for conservatories, bright living rooms and tropical gardens in temperate climates.

• Flowering: white flowers with a yellow heart for added decorative value.

• Low maintenance: drought tolerant and relatively low-maintenance.

Pachypodium lamerei combines style, robustness, and tropical charm, making it suitable for both modern and classic interiors or gardens. Its exotic trunk structure makes it a real eye-catcher in any collection.