Pachypodium geayi, often called the Madagascar Palm (though not a true palm), is a striking succulent tree characterized by its slender, silvery-grey trunk adorned with sharp spines and topped with a crown of long, narrow, green leaves. This unique plant brings a touch of the exotic to collections with its architectural form and resilient nature.
 
Key Features of Pachypodium geayi
Slender, Spiny Trunk: Features a tall, slender trunk covered in a silvery-grey bark and numerous sharp spines arranged in vertical rows.
Apical Crown of Leaves: Bears a crown of long, narrow, bright green leaves at the top of the trunk and new growth points. These leaves are deciduous, typically dropping in the cooler months or during drought.
Pachycaul Stem: Possesses a thickened stem (caudex), adapted for water storage, contributing to its succulent nature.
Relatively Fast Growth (in ideal conditions): Can grow relatively quickly compared to some other Pachypodium species, reaching impressive heights over time.
White Flowers: Mature plants can produce clusters of fragrant, white, star-shaped flowers at the apex, though this is less common in cultivation, especially in younger plants.
Latex Sap: Contains a milky latex sap that can be irritating to skin and mucous membranes.
 
Care for Your Pachypodium geayi
Light: Requires bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth and to maintain a strong, upright form.
Soil: Needs well-draining soil to prevent root rot. A cactus and succulent mix is highly recommended.
Watering: Water thoroughly during the active growing season (spring and summer), allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly 1 in the fall and winter when the plant is dormant or growth slows.  
Temperature: Prefers warm temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Protect from freezing conditions.
Humidity: Adapts to a range of humidity levels but benefits from good air circulation.
 
Maintenance for a Thriving Pachypodium geayi
Pruning (Minimal): Generally requires little pruning, mainly to remove dead or damaged leaves or branches. Be cautious of the latex sap.
Repotting: Repot every 2-3 years, or when the plant outgrows its container, using a well-draining soil mix. Choose a sturdy pot to support its eventual size.
Pest Control: Monitor for common pests like spider mites and scale, especially when kept indoors. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate methods.
Dormancy: Allow the plant to go through a natural dormancy period in the cooler months, characterized by leaf drop and reduced watering.
 
Propagation Methods for Expanding Your Collection
Seed: Propagation is primarily through seeds, which can be challenging to obtain and may have a low germination rate.
Offsets (Rare): Pachypodium geayi typically does not produce offsets readily.
Grafting: Grafting onto more robust Pachypodium rootstock is sometimes practiced.
 
Pachypodium geayi is a captivating and architecturally unique succulent tree that brings a touch of the Madagascan landscape to any collection. With its slender, spiny trunk and crown of vibrant green leaves, it is a resilient and intriguing plant for enthusiasts who can provide its need for bright light and well-draining conditions.
 
 
* Picture and information intended only as a guide. Size and colours of plants will vary, not any 1 plant is exactly the same and minor variations will occur.
 
** All plants will be posted bare rooted.