Scientific name: Archontophoenix cunninghamiana;
English Name: King palm, Bangalow palm
Local Name:
General information
Archontophoenix cunninghamiana is a solitary, pinnate, medium sized palm. It is a monoecious palm that can grow in sun or shade. Archontophoenix cunninghamiana displays a prominent dark green crown-shaft which can be streaked with red or purple. The crown-shaft can be folded into a watertight vessel with the petiole used as a handle. Leaves can measure up to 12’ long and usually do not droop below horizontal. Leaflets grow in a single plane and are sharply pointed. New leaves may emerge with pink or red tones. Inflorescences emerge below the crown-shaft and are pendulous and highly branched. Archontophoenix cunninghamiana has lavender flowers where all other Archontophoenix species have white/cream colored flowers.
Human benefits
Planted as an ornamental tree.
Cultivation Details
This is an adaptable plant that can grow in a range of soil types, though it responds well to soil rich in organic matter. It will grow in partial shade or full sun; it is cold-tolerant though does not handle frost well. It is a fast-growing plant and can grow through winter in cooler climates if given enough water. A plentiful supply of water is a very important requirement for this species, especially in dry periods. It does not like root disturbance and can be difficult to transplant successfully but is otherwise easy to grow.
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