Family: Arecaceae

These 18 species of striking feather palms are found in tropical forests of Fiji, the Solomon Islands and the Philippines. Most have a smooth, solitary, pale gray trunk and an umbrella-shaped crown, comprised of bright green, arching fronds divided into narrow leaflets. The inflorescences are followed by dense clusters of red or orange, egg-shaped fruits. They are suitable for growing outdoors in the subtropics and tropics, but in other climates should be grown in a warm greenhouse or con­servatory.

Species

V. joannis, from Fiji, grows 30 m (100 ft) tall. The gently arching fronds are divided into large numbers of leaflets. Large, stiff sprays of light red fruits appear under the crown after flowering.

V. merrillii, Manila palm, native to the Philippines, is the species most cultivated. Growing to only 7 m (23 ft) tall, it has a slightly tapering, ringed trunk and a neat crown of feathery, bright green leaves. The quite small inflorescences are followed by clusters of bright red fruits.

Cultivation

When grown as pot plants under glass, use a gritty, soil-based potting compost. Provide maximum light, but shade from direct, strong sun. Propagate from seed sown in spring and germinated at 24°C (75°F). Seed should ger­minate in about three months.

Climate

Warmest parts of zone 10 to tropical.