Care of the palm tree Licuala grandis or Ruffled fan palm |
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The genus Licuala, family Arecaceae, includes more than 150 species of palm trees native to Asia, New Guinea and some Pacific islands. Some species are: Licuala grandis, Licuala orbicularis, Licuala spinosa, Licuala peltata, Licuala ramsayi. Common names: Ruffled fan palm, Vanuatu fan palm, Palas palm, Grosse Licuala Palm, Palas Kipas, Palas, Palas Payung. This species is native to Solomon and Vanuatu Islands (New Guinea). They are small palm trees that do not branch and reach 3 meters (9.84 feet) in height. The elegant, large leaves are fan-shaped and deep green in color. The flowers appear in hanging clusters but do not usually bloom indoors. The fruits are red. These slow-growing plants are used as indoor and greenhouse plants. The tropical regions are used as isolated specimens in the garden and in small groups. The Mediterranean climate regions can be located on patios and terraces during the summer. Licuala grandis prefers a semi-shade exposure but also grows in the shade and in full sun. It does not resist temperatures below 14 ºC (57.2 ºF). The soil can be a mixture of 50% black peat, 30% coarse siliceous sand, and 20% humus or compost. It is advisable to transplant them every 2-3 years in early spring; renew part of the substrate. Water frequently with lime-free water so that the substrate is always damp but not puddled. The humidity must be medium-high: periodically spray the leaves with lime-free water and clean them with a damp cloth. Fertilize monthly with mineral fertilizer for indoor plants in spring and summer. They do not need pruning but dry leaves can be removed. They are quite resistant plants to the usual pests and diseases; it is important that they have good ventilation and that they do not suffer sudden changes in temperature. They are propagated from seeds sown in the seedbed in spring previously soaked in water for a week. |
Images of the palm tree Licuala grandis or Ruffled fan palm |
 Licuala grandis |