Bottle Palm – Hyophorbe lagenicaulis
The Bottle Palm likes is a hardy relative of the ‘Spindle Palm’. A relatively small growing Palm and is popular throughout Queensland however it is more tolerant of cooler temperatures than many.
It derives its name from the swollen trunk base, and will grow to 4 – 5 meters. The ‘Bottle Palm’ Hyophorbe lagenicaulis makes a good feature palm.
Growing from a single trunk (solitary palm) the trunk will swell over time to reach around 70cm in diameter, tapering towards the top where the long arching fronds to 3m long provide an attractive feature.
How to grow the Bottle Palm
- Position
Full sun to a little shade, in a humus rich soil, sandy soils are suitable and the Bottle Palm will grow in coastal conditions. A frost free position is essential. Protection from strong winds is also recommended. - Light
Full sun to a little shade, new plants should be slowly acclimatised to full sun as they are often grown under shade cloth.
Deep shade can cause irregular growth as the plant reaches for light. - Watering
Water well during long dry summer periods, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. - Fertiliser
In doors in containers a liquid fertiliser in easy spring and again in summer should be sufficient. Outdoors a slow release organic fertiliser in spring is recommended. - Pruning
This is not a self cleaning palm so you ill need to prune the old fronds away as they appear. As it is a small growing tree it os fairly easy to prune. - Growth rate
Regarded as a slow growing tree, however growth rate improved with good soil conditions and regular fertilizer.
Landscaping Uses
Excellent small palm tree for commercial plantings as well as for creating a tropical look without the height of many other palm trees.
The degree of swelling in the trunk does seem to vary, however generally broader with age. The trunk will develop with a pronounced series of rings which adds to the general appearance.
A spreading crown to around 5 – 6m and an attractive growth habit. Best grown in full sun with protection from strong hot winds it makes an excellent feature or background plant in a tropical garden setting.
Excellent in a poolside setting and a good small palm tree for resorts and coastal developments.
Summary
- Botanical Name – Hyophorbe lagenicaulis
- Common Name – Bottle Palm
- Origin: Mauritius
- Height 3 – 5 m
- Spread – 2 – 4 m crown on maturity
- Growth rate – Slow to Medium
- Soil – Well drained
- Aspect – Full sun
- Attractions – Swollen trunk and attractive spreading foliage
- Flowers – Creamy white / yellow
- Frost Tolerant – No
- Drought tolerant – Medium
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