Native to southern Madagascar, Pachypodium lamerei is a seldom branching spiny succulent topped with a rosette of non succulent leaves. They can grow to 15 feet high in the wild but are generally smaller in cultivation. The silvery color of the spiny trunk makes a wonderfull contrast with the bright green leaves. On Mature specimens six foot high or more, white flowers are produced in summer.
      This was my first Pachypodium, I was shocked at how fast it grew. Almost a foot in the first season! Click below for more pictures.

In the garden last summer

Nice grouping at Tohono Chul Park

Closeup of trunk and spines

A 12 footer at Arid Lands