Chamaedorea microspadix

Common names

Bamboo Palm (this name is also often given to C. seifritzii, although they can be easily differentiated by fruits colour, black in C. seifritzii and bright red in C. microspadix).

Curiosities

The species name ‘microspadix’ refers to the small inflorescence.

Origin

Mexico.

Habitat

Rainforest at low altitude. Usually on limestone. Species of special concern.

Morphology

A multiple trunk up to 3 m tall, forming dense groups. Four to 6 pinnate leaves, around 1 m long. Inflorescence growing below the leaves (infrafoliar). Rounded fruits, bright orange-red.

Climate

The most cold tolerant. Copes well in temperate areas. This palm has tolerated temperatures down to –7.8ºC (18ºF, USDA Zone 8b).

Germination

Growing

Very resistant as indoor plant. Outside can adapt to sunny positions, but makes its best in shade. Appropriate for temperate gardens, forms big groups and, once established, can tolerate direct sun without leaf damage.