Rhopalostylis sapida aka Nikau Palm

Taxonomy

Genus Rhopalostylis Family Arecaceae Order Arecales Class Liliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Rhopalostylis sapida, also known as nīkau in Māori, is a slow-growing palm tree endemic to New Zealand. It is the only palm species native to mainland New Zealand. This palm can reach heights of 6-10m and has a stout, green trunk covered in grey-green leaf scars. Atop the trunk, there is a smooth, bulging crownshaft that can grow up to 1m long. The crown of the tree consists of feathery leaves, upright in growth, forming a shuttlecock shape and measuring 1.2-1.8m in length. The nikau palm produces lilac-cream flowers, followed by oblong fruits that take nearly a year to turn a deep red color. Flowering typically starts when the tree is around 30 years old. The inflorescence of the nikau palm is multibranched, measuring 200-400mm long. The closely set leaflets can reach up to 1m in length. Male flowers are borne in pairs and have six stamens, while the female flowers are solitary. The fruits, preferred by the kererū (native pigeon), are elliptic or oblong, measuring about 10 by 7mm when ripe. Flowering occurs between November and April, and the fruits ripen from February to November.

Common names

Nikau Palm, Shaving Brush Palm, Feather Duster Palm

How to care for Nikau Palm

Difficulty

Nikau Palm presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

Water

Nikau Palm should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

Nikau Palm thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Feather Duster Palm.

Toxicity

Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.

More info:
Wikipedia

More Species in Rhopalostylis Genus

Rhopalostylis baueri Norfolk Palm