A rare fan palm species that is sought after for the unusual colour pattern of its leaves. The pattern consists of light and dark green dots and stripes in a variety of shapes. The species is native to the rainforests of Borneo where it grows at a maximum height of 1 metre in the lower layer of the forest. There are some other palm species with a similar leaf pattern, including the recently discovered
Licuala sp. 'Kalimantan Mottled'. In terms of leaves, these two species are similar, but the difference is mainly seen in the seeds. The '
Kalimantan Mottled' has round seeds, while this
Licuala mattanensis has very elongated seeds. The
paucisecta variety was formerly called '
Mapu'.Â
The plant needs a humid, warm environment for growth. Therefore, ensure high humidity and otherwise spray the leaves with water regularly. A temperature of 25-30grC would be optimal for at least part of the year, In addition, you can use a well-drained slightly acidic soil that can be kept slightly moist.Â
Sowing description: The already germinated seed can be sown directly in a well-drained soil of e.g.
sowing soil and
Sphagnum moss. For initial development, a temperature of 25 to 30grC is optimal.Â
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