| Climate Zone | 9b |
| Min Temp (F/C) | 25 to 30 F / -4 to -1 C |
| Leaf Type | Pinnate |
| Height | 49.2 Ft / 15 M |
| Growth Rate | Slow to Moderate |
| Conservation Status |
Data Deficient
|
| Crownshaft | Yes |
| Habit | Solitary |
| Soil pH | 6.0-6.9 (Near neutral) |
| Soil Type | Loamy |
Rhopalostylis sapida
Nikau Palm
Sizes
- 1 gallon
About Rhopalostylis sapida
This species is notable in that it is one of the southernmost occurring palm species in the world and is the only palm tree species native to New Zealand. It is a solitary palm with a stout trunk. The trunk is ringed with scars from old leaves, giving it a distinctive appearance and is topped with a bulging crownshaft. The crown has glossy green leaves that have a slightly arching appearance, giving the tree it’s distinctive appearance. It produces small, cream-colored flowers that are clustered together in large inflorescences. The small fruit turns to red or orange when ripe.
Cultivation Tips
Very popular in cultivation as it is an excellent pot plant, and provided the root is undisturbed when transplanted. Plant in a location that receives full sun to partial shade. Quite hardy and thrives in a cool climate with little temperature variation. It does not acclimate well to hot dry environments. Feed several times during the growing season with a high quality palm fertilizer.
