Ptychosperma macarthurii

Common names

McArthur Palm

Curiosities

Dedicated to Sir McArthur from New South Wales.

Origin

New Guinea (Centre South), Torre Strait Islands and Australia (East of Cape York).

Habitat

Marshy forests, mangroves, seasonally flooded areas, but also on steep hills.

Morphology

Usually forms dense groups, up to 10 m tall. The beautifully arched leaves, are dark green in shade, have a prominent sheath, up to 2 m long, and are divided in around 25 leaflets at each side of rachis. Fruits are round to ovoid, bright red. Easily hybridises with other species of this genus.

Climate

Subtropical to warm temperate. Can grow in warm temperate climate, although it is cold sensitive.

Germination

Fresh seeds germinate in 3-5 months.

Growing

Can grow in full sun. Prefers a well-drained soil and has a good response to nitrogen rich fertilizers. Likes plenty of water. Widely cultivated, one of the most popular palms together with P. elegans. Cultivated as indoor plant, requires plenty of light.