Walking Palm (Socratea exorrhiza)

Product description

This particular palm has distinctive stilt roots growing out of the trunk. This would allow the palm to move across the ground, so that it can receive more sunlight or more nutrients further away. The movement would then come about by forming roots on the favourable side and, on the other side, actually causing roots to die off. However, it is not entirely clear whether this actually happens, as it could also be that the stilt roots merely provide stability on a moist forest floor or a better oxygen supply. Either way, the roots look extraordinary and the theory of walking is interesting. 

The species is found in the rainforests of Central and South America. There, it can grow up to 20 metres high and is often covered by many epiphytes. Flowering takes place in the dry season and the flowers are pollinated by beetles. Afterwards, yellow fruits form containing seeds that are popular with peccaries (a kind of wild boar). 

When growing as a houseplant, it is important to provide a well-drained soil with e.g. moss and sand. That soil should always be well moist and it also helps if the humidity is relatively high. A spot in the sun to semi-shade is sufficient. 

Sowing description: The already germinated seeds can be transferred directly into a well-drained soil mixture with e.g. moss and sand. Keep the soil well moist. A temperature of 25-30grC is optimal for initial development.