Source: Wikimedia Commons
Pachypodium geayi
BeginnerPachypodium geayi
Known in Japan as Aasoukai. A south-western Madagascan Pachypodium with a thick, spiny, silver-grey trunk rising like a column and a crown of long, narrow leaves with a bright pink midrib. One of the largest species in the genus.
About
Pachypodium geayi is one of the largest members of its genus in the Apocynaceae, long grown in Japan under the name Aasoukai. It occurs in south-western Madagascar on a range of substrates, from old coastal dunes to limestone, schist and red sand, in low open dry forest with Didierea, Alluaudia and baobabs; the IUCN Red List category is Least Concern. It forms a bottle-shaped tree 4-7 m (rarely 8 m) tall; the trunk is 3-6 m long and 15-30 cm across at the base, thickening upward, with young growth covered in silvery-grey felt and rows of sharp spines. Leaves are thin and linear-lanceolate, up to 40 cm long, glossy grey-green to dark green with a bright pink midrib; heat, cold or drought stress darkens them almost to purple. The flowers are white. It is often confused with the more common P. lamerei but differs in its thinner leaves with a contrasting midrib and the hairs on young branches and leaves. In Japan seedlings are sold by specialist online shops, and seed is available.
Size of the Pachypodium geayi
The Pachypodium geayi grows to 4-7 m (rarely 8 m) in habitat; grows about 10 cm a year in cultivation.
Basic Info
Origin
South-western Madagascar
Lifespan
Long-lived tree (little published data)
Size
4-7 m (rarely 8 m) in habitat; grows about 10 cm a year in cultivation
Temperature
10〜35℃
Watering & Fertilizer
Regularly during the growing season
Growing Tips
Light & Placement
Grow in a warm spot in full sun to light shade. It is fairly easy indoors or out.
Watering
Water regularly while in leaf; in a well-drained mix it takes plenty in hot summers. Indoors keep it on the drier side to avoid rot.
Dormancy Care
It is deciduous and dormant in winter. Reduce water after leaf fall and resume when new leaves appear in spring.
Soil & Repotting
Use a free-draining cactus-type mix. Repot about every three years, wrapping the spiny trunk in newspaper to handle it.
Pruning & Shaping
It grows about 10 cm a year and may outgrow an indoor spot within ten years. Cutting the top encourages branching, and it regenerates well.
Pests & Cautions
Pachypodium sap is toxic and the spines are sharp. Wear thick gloves or wrap the trunk in several layers of newspaper when repotting or moving it.
Pachypodium geayi FAQ
QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Pachypodium geayi?
Beginner. A variety suitable for beginners. No special equipment or experience is required—you can grow it without problems by setting up a basic cultivation environment.
QHow large does Pachypodium geayi get?
The mature size of Pachypodium geayi is 4-7 m (rarely 8 m) in habitat; grows about 10 cm a year in cultivation. This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.
QHow should I water and fertilize Pachypodium geayi?
Pachypodium geayi: watering & fertilizer — Regularly during the growing season. Aim for appropriate frequency and amount.
QWhat is the typical price for Pachypodium geayi?
The price of Pachypodium geayi 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.
Taxonomy & Authority
Regulations & Conservation Status
Listed in CITES Appendix II (covered by the genus listing for Pachypodium). International trade needs an export permit, but no registration is required for transfers within Japan.
Sources: Species+ (CITES): Pachypodium geayi
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Related Species
Find listings for this species
Related Articles
Pachypodium gracillis Care Guide | Growing Thick Caudex from Seed
A practical guide to caring for Pachypodium gracillis, a popular caudex plant. Covers seed propagation and cultivation, choosing the right soil and pots, summer growing season and winter dormancy management, and secrets to watering and fertilization for developing thick caudexes.
Pachypodium Species Guide | Characteristics and Differences of Gracilis, Brevicaule, and Baronii
A detailed introduction to the most popular Pachypodium species. This guide explains the characteristics and differences of Gracilis, Brevicaule, Baronii, Lamerei, and Horombense, along with cultivation tips for each.
Pachypodium Seed Propagation Guide | From Sowing to Germination and Growth
This guide explains how to grow Pachypodium from seed. We cover everything from sourcing seeds and sowing to managing germination, caring for seedlings, and the unique joys of seed propagation.
Rooting and Initial Care of Pachypodium Gracilius
Methods for encouraging root development in imported bare-root Pachypodium gracilis. Explains the preparation of pots, soil media, and temperature conditions; watering practices during rooting (maintaining primarily dry conditions); how to confirm successful rooting and interpret key indicators; initial post-rooting care; and seasonal management guidelines.
🩺 Common diseases
Can't find the plant you're looking for?
Post your wishes for free and growers with matching plants will contact you with introductions.