Pachypodium saundersii is one of the two species of Madagascar palm that can be cultivated as a houseplant. The care of this succulent, which is unfortunately poisonous in all parts of the plant, is not complicated. How to care for Pachypodium saundersii.
How to properly care for Pachypodium saundersii?
Pachypodium saundersii requires thorough watering in summer without waterlogging, monthly fertilization from May to September, repotting every two to three years and a bright, cool winter location without frost. If cared for well, the succulent can produce white funnel flowers from May to July.
What should you consider when watering Pachypodium saundersii?
Pachypodium saundersii belongs to the thick-footed family. It stores water in its thickened trunk called the caudex. When watering, please note that the plant goes through a very wet and a very dry phase in its homeland.
In summer, water Pachypodium thoroughly without causing waterlogging. The substrate should always be moist. In winter, reduce the amount of watering so that the root ball just doesn't dry out.
How to fertilize the succulent?
Fertilizing is not absolutely necessary, especially if you repot the succulent regularly. However, a little liquid fertilizer once a month (€6.00 on Amazon) won't do any harm. Fertilization is only carried out from May to September.
When is it time to repot?
Every two to three years, Pachypodium saundersii needs fresh substrate and a slightly larger pot. It is best to repot immediately after the rest period at the beginning of the year.
Do you need to prune Pachypodium saundersii?
Pachypodium saundersii tolerates cutting well. You don't have to cut, but you can use a knife if the plant gets too big. Cutting takes place at the beginning of the year in February or March.
What diseases and pests can occur?
Waterlogging causes root rot. The caudex becomes soft and the plant dies.
Spider mites appear quite often when the air in the room is very dry. Rinse the plant under the shower. Place open bowls of water near the pot to increase humidity.
What does proper care look like in winter?
Since Pachypodium saundersii does not tolerate frost at all, it must be cared for indoors in winter. However, since she usually takes a break during this time, you should not leave her in the warm living room, but rather move her to a cool but bright location.
It shouldn't get colder than 13 degrees at the winter location.
Tip
Pachypodium saundersii produces white funnel flowers from May to July if well cared for. In summer, the Madagascar palm likes to stay outdoors.
