Pinang tanah palm (Pinanga subterranea)

Product description

The rare pinang tanah palm is a strikingly elegant palm that produces both its flowers and fruits entirely underground. The species occurs naturally in the low-lying tropical forests of Borneo, where the fruits have long been popular with the local population. Only recently has the palm attracted the interest of scientists due to its method of reproduction. The palm itself is a small palm with a trunk no larger than 6 cm and graceful, feathery, fishtail-shaped leaves that can grow up to 85 cm long. The trunk of the palm remains underground, does not form aerial roots like some other Pinanga species, and also forms the small flowers along the trunk underground. The flowers are probably pollinated by small insects or by self-pollination. The bright red berries that follow underground are eaten in the wild by bearded pigs, which spread the seeds. For this reason, the species has become relatively widespread in western Borneo. The local population also collects and eats the sweet berries, spitting out the hard seeds and thus also spreading them. The palm is besides the name pinang tanah also known by the local population as puning pelandok and tudong pelandok. 

The species can be kept as a houseplant in temperate climates. As it is a low-growing palm in the rainforest, it is important to avoid direct sunlight. A place with plenty of indirect light is beneficial. Ensure well-drained soil and keep the soil constantly slightly moist. For optimal growth, a temperature above 20 °C is best. Spray the leaves regularly with water if the humidity is below 70%.

Sowing description: The germinated seed can be sown directly in well-drained soil, e.g. seed compost and Sphagnum moss. A temperature above 20°C is optimal for initial development.