Contrary to their common name, Madagascar palms (botanical Pachypodium lamerei) are not palm trees, but belong to the succulent family. They are absolutely easy to care for and therefore ideal beginner plants. Even if a Madagascar palm grows very quickly, you should not cut it. The plant then almost always dies.

The madagascar palm should not be trimmed

You don't have to cut Madagascar palms

In a good location and optimal care, a Madagascar palm grows very quickly. Within a few years, a plant that was originally 40 cm high can reach a height of two meters.

If the pitch of the Madagascar palm is not high enough, you should look for another place. The plant, also known as thick-footed, dies if you simply shorten it at the top.

You can restrict growth somewhat by not fertilizing the Madagascar palm and not keeping it quite so warm.

You can cut off discolored leaves

For a Madagascar palm to lose its leaves is a normal process that occurs at the beginning of the dormant period. If the leaves turn yellow or black during the growth phase, the plant is usually kept too moist or infested with scale insects. You can cut off affected leaves with sharp scissors.

Cut side shoots to propagate the madagascar palm

You can propagate Madagascar palms from seeds. In addition, shoots form on the side, which you can cut as cuttings.

They are cut off with a sharp knife. Then the interfaces must be dried for a day before they are inserted into the plant substrate.

Wrap the trunk in foil before shortening

If you can't avoid attacking the Madagascar palm with a knife or scissors, keep in mind that the trunk is very prickly. The spikes are extremely stubborn and you must absolutely avoid penetrating your skin. Wearing gloves is not enough.

Before trimming or even repotting, wrap strong foil around the trunk where you need to touch it. Then you can touch it there without hurting yourself.

  • Clean tools before and after cutting
  • wear gloves
  • Wrap trunk with foil
  • Clean up leftovers immediately

tips

Never leave cut or fallen leaves lying around. Madagascar palms are poisonous in all parts of the plant. You should therefore always wear gloves when cutting.

Category:

Trees