Dypsis decaryi – Triangle Palm

Description

Chrysalidocarpus decaryi (syn. Dypsis decaryi) – Triangle Palm

Family: Arecaceae
Packet Size: 8 Seeds

Description

Triangle Palm comes from southern Madagascar and is admired for the unusual three-ranked arrangement of its long, arching fronds. The leaf bases form a distinctive triangular silhouette around the crown, giving the plant its familiar common name.

Often sold under the long-established horticultural name Dypsis decaryi, this species is now accepted by Kew as Chrysalidocarpus decaryi. The narrow, upright trunk and silvery green foliage make it an architectural specimen in warm gardens.

Key Features

• Crown: Fronds arise in three distinct directions, forming a triangular arrangement.
• Foliage: Arching, blue-green to silvery feather fronds.
• Habit: Solitary trunked palm with a strong ornamental silhouette.

Growing Conditions

• Light: Full sun after gradual acclimatisation; young seedlings appreciate filtered light.
• Soil: Sandy or gritty, freely draining soil; avoid standing water.
• Climate: Warm, dry tropical to subtropical conditions; protect from frost.
• Care: Water young plants during establishment but let the surface drain freely.

Propagation from Seed

1. Sow: Cover cleaned seeds shallowly in sterile, free-draining palm propagation mix.
2. Warmth: Maintain warm, steady temperatures with gentle moisture, not saturated soil.
3. Patience: Germination may take weeks or months; pot on carefully once roots are developed.

Growing Note

Kew recognises Chrysalidocarpus decaryi as the accepted name; Dypsis decaryi is a widely used synonym.

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.