Phytelephas tumacana

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Scientific Classification
Genus: Enter a value. Species: tumacana
Synonyms
None set.
Native Continent
America
Morphology
Habit: Solitary Leaf type: Pinnate
Culture
Survivability index
Common names
None.

Comments and Curiosities

One of the rarest Ivory Nut Palm, this Phytelephas is native only to southwesternmost Colombia (Nariño) and extreme northwestern Ecuador, where it grows in wet lowland areas. Formerly large stands of this palm have been severely decimated and are now considered endangered. While generally similar to P. aequatorialis in forming a tall, rough, solitary trunk, a spreading crown of pinnate leaves and large heads of heavy fruits, P. tumacana is easily distinguished, however, by its flat leaves with evenly arranged leaflets that give it a much neater appearance than the often slightly tattered looking P. aequatorialis. Phytelephas represents one of the most ancient branches in the palm family. Its unusual seeds are somewhat lengthy to sprout (use deep pots), but once above the ground, seedlings are pretty fast growing and easy to maintain. An interesting and rarely seen palm tree that looks best in a humid and shady place under larger trees in the tropical and subtropical garden. Despite its very tropical origin, P. tumacana is surprisingly adaptable. (RPS.com), edric.

External Links

• Glossary of Palm Terms
• MODERN BOTANICAL LATIN
• "Just To Be Clear"

References

Phonetic spelling of Latin names by edric.

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.

Glossary of Palm Terms; Based on the glossary in Dransfield, J., N.W. Uhl, C.B. Asmussen-Lange, W.J. Baker, M.M. Harley & C.E. Lewis. 2008. Genera Palmarum - Evolution and Classification of the Palms. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. All images copyright of the artists and photographers (see images for credits).

• IMAGE GALLERY

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

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