Hyophorbe verschaffeltii – Spindle Palm

Description

Hyophorbe verschaffeltii – Spindle Palm

Family: Arecaceae
Packet Size: 8 Seeds

Description

Spindle Palm, Hyophorbe verschaffeltii, originates from Rodrigues Island in the Mascarene group. Its smooth trunk typically swells through the middle rather than forming the lower bottle shape of its relative H. lagenicaulis.

An upright, solitary palm with arching feather fronds, it makes a striking feature in frost-free gardens and sheltered tropical courtyards. The swelling of the trunk develops gradually as plants mature.

Key Features

• Trunk: Smooth, often swollen through the centre in a spindle shape.
• Foliage: Gracefully arching green feather fronds.
• Growth: Solitary ornamental palm with a distinctive crownshaft.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun to bright filtered light after gradual acclimatisation.
• Soil: Well-drained soil or loose palm potting mix.
• Climate: Tropical and very warm subtropical; avoid frost.
• Care: Keep young plants sheltered from strong wind and prolonged drought.

Propagation from Seed

1. Optional soak: Soak dried seed in clean lukewarm water for about 24 hours.
2. Sow: Cover lightly in free-draining, hygienic potting medium.
3. Warmth: Keep consistently warm and lightly moist; germination may be irregular over many weeks.

Germination advice: These instructions are a recommended guide. Germination results and timing may vary depending on seed freshness, storage, temperature and growing conditions. Alternative propagation methods may also be successful.