This rare Licuala species originates from the swamp forests of Southeast Asia. The species is well adapted to wet conditions and can tolerate periods of flooding lasting up to six months per year. This is where its name comes from: paludosa means ‘of the swamp’. The palm has round, fan-shaped leaves that can grow to about 1 metre in diameter. The leaf stalks that support the leaves are covered with small black thorns to protect them from herbivores. The plant is best known for the colour of its leaf stalks, which have earned it the nickname ‘golden licuala’. In full sun, they are orange, while in shady environments they often turn more yellow-green.
The palm grows in the lower layer of the forest, where it usually reaches a maximum height of about 6 metres. Due to its multi-stemmed growth habit, the plant can spread to several metres in width. This dense form makes it a nice houseplant, as even smaller plants look full and well-developed. Plants like high humidity, a light but shady location and constantly moist, well-drained soil. Spray the leaves regularly to maintain humidity.
Sowing description: The seeds can be sown directly in well-drained soil, such as seed compost and sphagnum moss. A temperature of 25 to 30 °C is ideal for initial development.
