Mottled dwarf palm (Pinanga aristata)

Product description

This small palm originates from the tropical rainforests of Borneo, where it grows in the dense understory of the forest. Flowering is even possible when the plant is around 60 cm tall, and fully grown specimens can reach a height of around 2 metres.

Seedlings can show a slight reddish coloration on the newer leaves, though this becomes more apparent in older plants. They show a dark red or purple coloration on newly produced leaves to appear toxic, while they are not. After some time this coloration fades and the leaves are left with a beautiful mottled pattern, similar to Pinanga crassipes. The leaves are pinnate, meaning a single palm leaf consists of various smaller leaflets along the leaf stem. After the inflorescence is formed and the flowers have been pollinated, small bright red fruits appear which each contain a single seed. 

The palm can be grown indoors in temperate climates, but it can be a challenge. Humidity is often low indoors, especially during winter, so the palm can benefit from being sprayed with water from time to time. For optimum growth, a temperature above 20 °C is best, but the minimum temperature is around 15 °C. Watering can be quite frequent, as the species can also be found in swamps. Be sure to let the soil dry from time to time and use well-drained soil. Place in a shaded spot. 

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 above 20grC is optimal.