Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pachypodium decaryi
AdvancedPachypodium decaryi
A northern Madagascan Pachypodium with an almost spherical grey caudex and slender, nearly spineless branches. It bears pure white flowers up to 12 cm across, the largest in the genus. CITES Appendix I.
About
Pachypodium decaryi is a caudiciform member of the Apocynaceae described by Poisson in 1922. It grows in northern Madagascar, on sunny, strongly eroded limestone at 200-400 m such as the Ankarana cliffs and Montagne des Français, and in dry deciduous forest; the IUCN Red List category is Endangered. The almost spherical, grey-skinned caudex reaches 40 cm across and tapers abruptly into a few smooth branches; the whole plant approaches 2 m, occasionally 4 m. Its spines are minute and black, in threes on new shoot tips, and fall with the leaves, making it the only almost spineless species in the genus. Leaves are 5-10 cm long in terminal rosettes and fall in winter. The pure white flowers are 5-8 cm long and up to 12 cm across, the largest in the genus, with up to ten per cluster. It is considered difficult in cultivation and grows slowly. In Japan mainly seed-raised plants are sold through auction sites and online shops, and seed is available.
Size of the Pachypodium decaryi
The Pachypodium decaryi grows to Nearly 2 m tall (occasionally 4 m); caudex up to 40 cm across.
Basic Info
Origin
Northern Madagascar (limestone around Ankarana)
Lifespan
Slow-growing and long-lived (little published data)
Size
Nearly 2 m tall (occasionally 4 m); caudex up to 40 cm across
Temperature
10〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Sparingly in the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Grow in full sun to light shade. It can go outdoors in sun in warm weather, but keep it out of rain.
Watering
Water sparingly in the heat of the growing season and not at all from late autumn to mid-spring. The older the plant, the less water it needs; never leave it damp in cool weather.
Temperature & Overwintering
It is cold-sensitive; overwinter it completely dry at about 16°C at night and 20°C or more by day. It shows some cold resilience when bone dry, but protect it from frost.
Soil & Repotting
Use a gritty, porous mix that is not strongly acidic. Repot about every three years.
Propagation
Mainly propagated from seed; fresh seed germinates well after soaking in warm water for 24 hours.
Pests & Cautions
The sap is toxic, so avoid contact when the plant is damaged. As an Appendix I species, international trade in wild-collected plants is prohibited, so plants on the Japanese market are mainly seed-raised. Even so, check for a registration certificate before buying or listing.
Pachypodium decaryi FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Pachypodium decaryi?
Advanced. A variety suitable for advanced growers. Requires advanced cultivation techniques and specialized equipment, with careful environmental adjustments needed.
QHow large does Pachypodium decaryi get?
The mature size of Pachypodium decaryi is Nearly 2 m tall (occasionally 4 m); caudex up to 40 cm across. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Pachypodium decaryi?
Pachypodium decaryi: watering & fertilizer — Sparingly in the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Pachypodium decaryi?
The price of Pachypodium decaryi varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check GrowerDirect's price guide for the latest market information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: GrowerDirect Editorial Team
The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.
Primary sources
- Species+ (CITES): Pachypodium decaryi
- Ministry of the Environment, Japan: Act on Conservation of Endangered Species
- Japan Wildlife Research Center: registration of internationally endangered species
- IUCN Red List category via GBIF: Pachypodium decaryi
- LLIFLE Encyclopedia of Succulents: Pachypodium decaryi
- Wikipedia: Pachypodium decaryi
- GBIF
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Listed in CITES Appendix I. International trade is prohibited in principle, and in Japan the species is an "internationally endangered species" under the Act on Conservation of Endangered Species, so transfers and display or advertising for sale generally require a registration certificate. Check that a certificate exists before buying or listing. The IUCN Red List category is Endangered.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Pachypodium decaryi / Ministry of the Environment, Japan: Act on Conservation of Endangered Species / Japan Wildlife Research Center: registration of internationally endangered species / IUCN Red List category via GBIF: Pachypodium decaryi
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
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