Difference between revisions of "Heterospathe longipes"

Revision as of 12:36, 7 December 2012

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Floribunda Palms, Hawaii.

Heterospathe longipes
Scientific Classification
Genus: Heterospathe Species: longipes
Synonyms
Alsmithia longipes
Native Continent
Oceania
Morphology
Habit: solitary Height: 10-12ft/3-3.6m Trunk diameter: 8in/20cm
Culture
Sun exposure: Mild full sun. Watering: moderate-wet Soil type: well draining.
Survivability index
Common names
None.

Habitat and Distribution

Endemic to Fiji, lives in the low elevation rain forests.

Description

It is a monoecious, pinnate palm that is relatively sparsely leaved and grows to a height of only about 10'-12'/3-3.6m. New leaf color is red-orange.

Culture

This is a decidedly tropical palm, marginal in subtropical climates like South Florida. Does great in Hawaii, though, where it is rapidly becoming a common "collector's" plant among palm enthusiasts. Most were disappointed when it lost its monotypic status, and got moved to the genus Heterospathe, so it may be a little less sought after now. Needs lots of water and constant warmth.

Comments and Curiosities

This is a tillering palm, it exhibits saxophone style root growth (it has a heel), keep top third of heel above soil elevation!.

External Links

• Glossary of Palm Terms
• Pronunciation Key
• THE SAXOPHONE STYLE ROOT GROWTH (HEEL)

References

Special thanks to Geoff Stein, (Palmbob) for his hundreds of photos, edric.

Special thanks to palmweb.org, Dr. John Dransfield, Dr. Bill Baker & team, for their volumes of information and photos, edric.

Many Special Thanks to Ed Vaile for his long hours of tireless editing and numerous contributions.