Pachypodium brevicaule care guide
Pachypodium brevicaule
Also known as: Brevicaule
Pets and children
Caution advised
The sap is considered poisonous and may cause vomiting if chewed, and it carries small spines; keep it out of reach and see a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Pachypodium brevicaule
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 14 days
- A summer grower that hates humid heat: once in leaf, water when the soil dries through in spring, as a guide, but from the rainy season through midsummer wait one to two weeks after it dries.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 10 days
- Growth resumes once the heat passes: water when the soil dries, about every ten days, then stretch the gaps as the leaves yellow.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 30 days
- Dry once leafless, with no more than a light surface moistening about once a month on a warm day.
Light and placement for Pachypodium brevicaule
Generally full sun and moving air outdoors in spring and fall; the flat body scorches in summer sun, so give about 30 to 50 percent shade and strong airflow in midsummer, out of the rain.
Overwintering Pachypodium brevicaule
Overwintering guide: 5°C (41°F) or above
As a guide, bring it to a bright window when nights drop below about 10°C and keep it above 5°C, dry and resting once the leaves have dropped.
Fertilizing and repotting Pachypodium brevicaule
Fertilizer
It needs very little: diluted liquid feed about once a month in spring and fall while in leaf, none in midsummer or winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
Common problems with Pachypodium brevicaule
- Watered in rainy-season and midsummer humidity, the flat caudex rots suddenly.
- An imported plant fails to root and deflates.
- Summer sun scorches the skin and leaves brown marks.
Tips for growing Pachypodium brevicaule
- Plants grafted onto P. lamerei, and the sturdier hybrid Ebisu Daikoku, are easier for beginners.
- Yellow flowers come from the edge of the body in spring, so give it plenty of sun then.
- Plant shallowly in a fast-drying mix heavy in pumice or kanuma, and top-dress around the caudex with pumice.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
