Wallichia disticha

Common names

Distichous Fishtail Palm, Wallich Palm.

Curiosities

Sago can be extracted from the trunk, and leaves are used for roof thatching.

Origin

Northeast of India, Sikkim.

Habitat

Rainforest, deep valleys and rocky, moist ravines.

Morphology

A single trunk covered with the scars of dead fronds and fibres. Leaves grow in two rows, erect. Leaflets also grow in two planes, giving the plant a plumose appearance. Unmistakable. Inflorescence growing among the base of leaves. Monocarpic palm, that is the plant dies after giving flower and fruit. Fruits dark red. Round seeds.

Climate

Tropical, subtropical. This palm has tolerated temperatures down to –0.2ºC (31.6ºF, USDA Zone 10a).

Germination

Seeds germinate slowly and irregularly.

Growing

Prefers tropical conditions, with lots of water during dry periods, and full sun. Seeds are difficult to obtain.