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Conservatory GreenhousePalms

Caryota mitis

Burmese fishtail palm

An evergreen palm with clustered stems bearing rich green leaves to 4m in length, composed of triangular leaflets, and panicles of creamy-white flowers in summer

Other common names
clustered fishtail palm
tufted fishtail palm
Synonyms
Caryota griffithii
Caryota sobolifera
see moreCaryota furfuracea
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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Cream Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H1C
Botanical details
Family
Arecaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Potentially harmful
Harmful if eaten, skin irritant. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling Pets (dogs, cats): Harmful if eaten, skin irritant - see the HTA guide to potentially harmful plants for further information and useful contact numbers
Genus

Caryota are evergreen palms with solitary or clustered stems bearing large, 2-pinnate leaves at the apex of each stem; small cream flowers are borne in large panicles in summer

Name status

Correct

Plant range
SE China to Indo-China & Malesia

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow under glass in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost in bright filtered light with high humidity. When in growth water moderately and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly. Water sparingly in winter

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in spring at 27°C

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Patio and container plants
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to scale insects and glasshouse red spider mite

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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