Pachypodium
Pachypodium or as they are commonly known Madagascar Palms, is a genus of succulent spine-bearing trees and shrubs, native to Madagascar and Africa. All members of this genus are what is known as Caudiciforms, having a swollen trunk or a base that they can store water in for times of drought. 20 of the 25 species are found in Madagascar with the remaining 5 found in Africa. Pachypodiums are a diverse genus with low growing species that form huge caudixi to large tree species that can top out at over 20’. This is genus that has something for everyone. Many of the low growing species can be very difficult in cultivation where as some of the tree species can be very easy and are a great starter plant for beginners. All of these plants are heat loving and will not tolerate cold temps for any length of time. Most love sun but the easier species are surprising tolerant of low light situations and can easily be grown under a simple grow lamp. If happy these plants will reward their growers with a display of summer flowers. Many of the tree species are quite fast growing, with 6” a year and can easily reach 4-5’ in some years. With so much diversity this is a great group of plant and every one should have at least one or more species in their collection.