Pachypodium care requirements
Quick answer
For Pachypodium, care requirements come down to this: Pachypodium (Summer type) are succulent trees and shrubs from Madagascar and Africa, characterized by thick, swollen trunks (caudex) that store water and nutrients. The name means 'thick foot.' Some species like P. lamerei have spectacular white flowers, while others remain small and highly prized by collectors. Pachypodium enter dormancy and drop their leaves during winter or dry seasons, relying entirely on caudex water reserves. The genus varies dramatically in size from small desktop specimens to 20-foot trees.
Start here:
- 1. Water every 2-3 weeks during growing season when plant has leaves
- 2. Keep completely dry in winter when plant is dormant and has dropped leaves
What care requirements mean for Pachypodium
Pachypodium (Summer type) are succulent trees and shrubs from Madagascar and Africa, characterized by thick, swollen trunks (caudex) that store water and nutrients. The name means 'thick foot.' Some species like P. lamerei have spectacular white flowers, while others remain small and highly prized by collectors. Pachypodium enter dormancy and drop their leaves during winter or dry seasons, relying entirely on caudex water reserves. The genus varies dramatically in size from small desktop specimens to 20-foot trees.
How to meet Pachypodium care requirements
- 1
Water every 2-3 weeks during growing season when plant has leaves
- 2
Keep completely dry in winter when plant is dormant and has dropped leaves
- 3
Provide 6+ hours of direct sun — pachypodium need high light levels
- 4
Use very gritty soil with excellent drainage — 80%+ inorganic material
- 5
Handle carefully: spines can be sharp and some species have irritant sap
Keeping Pachypodium in range
Water sparingly in summer; keep completely dry in winter; provide full sun; protect from frost below 45°F.