Family: Arecaceae
Scientific name: Licuala grandis
Common name: Ruffled fan palm
Origin: Vanuatu, Pacific ocean
A rare, small palm tree which originates from the rainforests on Vanuatu and the Solomon islands. In the tropical climate of its natural habitat it can reach a height of 3 meters. However indoors the palm won't reach that height, which makes it great to grow indoors. Due to the fan shape of the leaves, even at young ages the plant will look good. The palm will do well in an half shaded spot and can be sprayed with water regularly.
Sowing description: Scarify the seeds and soak them in lukewarm water for 24 hours. Germinate at a temperature of 25-30 degrees Celsius whilst keeping the soil moist. The high temperature can be achieved by covering the soil with see through foil or a greenhouse and placing it in the sun.
Sowing time: Whole year
Difficulty: Intermediate
Minimum temperature: 15 degrees Celsius
Picture 1: Mark Pellegrini (CCA-2.5 Wikipedia)
Picture 2: Wee Foong Ang via Flickr
Picture 3: Mayflowers Nursery