Laccospadix australasica

Laccospadix (lak-koh-SPAH-dix) australasica (aws-trah-lah-ZIH-kah)
Close up.
Scientific Classification
Genus: Laccospadix (lak-koh-SPAH-dix) Species: australasica (aws-trah-lah-ZIH-kah)
Synonyms
None set.
Native Continent
Oceania
Morphology
Habit: Solitary & clustering. Leaf type: Pinnate
Culture
Survivability index
Common names
Atherton Palm

Habitat and Distribution

Laccospadix australasica is native to Australia. Found in shaded humid Rain Forest.

California.

Description

Laccospadix australasica is a moderate size palm that can be clustering or solitary, and can exhibit a vibrant red new leaf, or the typical green. It slightly resembles a Howea, and has even been rumored to eventually be combined into this genus.

Culture

It's cultural needs are also similar to Howeas, so are a relatively easy grow for the milder coastal locations of the subtropics and some temperate climates.

Comments and Curiosities

This is a monotypic genus.

Although not a rare palm in its native habitat--montane rainforests in northeastern Queensland, Australia between 800 and 1600 m (2600 and 5200 ft.)-- the Atherton Palm is rarely seen in cultivation outside Australia. This is particularly surprising as it adapts easily to a range of climates and as it is a highly attractive, smallish palm that will find room in just about any garden. It also adapts well to cultivation in the house. It has a slender, solitary or sometimes clustering stem that carries a small, upright crown of finely pinnate, dark green leaves. The flower stalk is unbranched and carries many small, bright red fruits. Laccospadix does not look unlike a small Howea, and indeed the two are closely related. (RPS.com)