Troubleshooting
Madagascar Palm problems — and how to fix them
Madagascar Palm (Pachypodium lamerei) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Leaf drop in winter
Normal semi-deciduous behaviour triggered by cooler temperatures or reduced watering in winter — the plant is not dead. Reduce watering, maintain warmth above 13°C, and new leaves will emerge with returning warmth and light.
Root rot from overwatering
The most common cause of decline. Dark, mushy tissue at the trunk base indicates rot. Allow the medium to dry fully between waterings, particularly in autumn and winter. If rot is caught early, cut back to healthy tissue, dust with sulphur, and repot in fresh gritty mix.
Spider mites in low humidity
Fine webbing and speckled, stippled leaves indicate spider mites, which thrive in hot, dry indoor conditions. Increase humidity slightly, wipe leaves with a damp cloth, and treat with neem oil or a miticide spray.
Prevent madagascar palm problems before they start
Most madagascar palm issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Madagascar Palm problems — FAQ
Why is my madagascar palm leaf drop in winter?
Normal semi-deciduous behaviour triggered by cooler temperatures or reduced watering in winter — the plant is not dead. Reduce watering, maintain warmth above 13°C, and new leaves will emerge with returning warmth and light.
Why is my madagascar palm root rot from overwatering?
The most common cause of decline. Dark, mushy tissue at the trunk base indicates rot. Allow the medium to dry fully between waterings, particularly in autumn and winter. If rot is caught early, cut back to healthy tissue, dust with sulphur, and repot in fresh gritty mix.
Why is my madagascar palm spider mites in low humidity?
Fine webbing and speckled, stippled leaves indicate spider mites, which thrive in hot, dry indoor conditions. Increase humidity slightly, wipe leaves with a damp cloth, and treat with neem oil or a miticide spray.