PalmScapes

Seasons Greetings!

2010-12-27T00:54:00.000+08:00

To wish you all, a Peaceful and blessed Christmas time with family and friends...

The merriment of the season and year end is here, with the familiar tunes of ol' carols still ringing in my ears... yet I ponder where the days have flown and what little I managed to achieve or done to fill up the last 12 months.

Now, as we hover over week 52 of the year with my rush to complete missed and outstanding chores, can't help but noticed how quickly the last quarter had elapsed or was it just my funny feeling with age catching up? Honestly, the earth must be spinning that wee bit faster with each passing year, as is, with all things gaining momentum!

wreath of baubles

English village scene @ 1 Utama,,PJ

Toyland @ Mid Valley

Santa @ Empire, Subang Jaya

poinsettias galore

As we forlornly tear away the last page of the calendar or have it scrapped for good, as a creature of habit, we always line up a bright new one to usher in the new year...

The Scenic KLCC Park #2

2010-12-20T11:11:00.001+08:00

Discovering this beautifully designed park has been absolute eye opener for me and to think it had been around all these ages makes it more regrettable that I'd not ventured there earlier... such artful encapsulation of design and nature - just stupendous!

Besides the magnificent green hues, at selected rest areas one can find complementary colours from the flowering trees and leaves. Here's some from nature's palette...

top left - plumeria; top right - albizia guachapele (chime tree);
bottom left - plumeria; bottom right - ixora

ficus elastica

ochroma pyramidale (balsawood)

left - saraca thaipingensis ;
right - erythrina fusca (coral bean)

left - ixora; right - plumeria

Locally, the various visually striking plumerias are known as 'frangipanis' which exude the most unforgettable fragrance only at night to lure the moths for pollination...

The official opening hours at the KLCC Park are 7am - 10pm daily (last admission 1hr 30mins before close).

The Gebang Palm

2010-12-07T11:13:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Corypha utan/Corypha elata
a.k.a. Gebang (Malay)/Buri

The "bronzy-leaved" palms are such a cheerful contrast to the park greens with steel masses in the background. Actually, there were two groups of the Gebang palms in the KLCC park. These being so eye-catching, one could not miss....

One batch were planted beside the C. umbraculifera and some larger, shadier trees. They seemed okay but less happy.

This batch on the undulating ground beside the man-made stream and an adjacent pedestrian bridge looks absolutely vibrant and "sun tanned" in the the open. Just stunning!

sunny & toasted

These palms are found in India, throughout South-east Asia and even at the tip of Northern Australia. Their habitat are mainly along river courses, flood plains and grassy land. These large and tall palms do grow to heights of about 20m. Like the C. umbraculifera, they also flower towards the end of their lifetime with a massive display of a long inflorescence with countless flowers.

shady spot

large palmate leaves

The woody trunk is capped with many petiole ends, all armed with spines!

The Talipot Palm

2010-12-07T10:05:00.001+08:00

Botanical Name : Corypha umbraculifera

One of the ginormous palms sighted todate! Everything about this young palm is humongous so the picture here may not indicate its true proportion but standing beside it, I felt like a David & Goliath.

A native of Southern India and Sri Lanka, it is widely cultivated throughout South-east Asia where its leaves are used for thatching and palm sap fermented into a wine.

Its impressive statistics would be somewhat a Guinness record of the flora kind. Some of its awesome and dramatic characteristics are - it can reach heights of 25m; it's monocarpic i.e. flowering only once in its lifetime between 30-80yrs; the largest unbranched inflorescence with uncountable (a million?) miniscule flowers; the fruits take about a year to mature and a sad quirk of nature - the palm dies after fruiting.

The long robust petioles can reach lengths up to 4m, looks clean and without spines while the large palmate leaves stretch out wide about 3-4m in diameter.

playing host to epiphytic ferns

Impressive but definitely not one for the small home garden!

The Unknown Palm - Please help with ID

2010-11-30T11:25:00.000+08:00

The colour red strikes again!

Still strolling through the Park when a batch of low palm fronds caught my eyes. The usual bright green feather fronds were normal enough BUT what's really thrilling for me were the young shoots, hovering from bright to dull red

Nothing like I've seen before!!! My heart thumped with excitement at such an amazing find!

They were thriving under the shade of some tall trees. What's really unusual beside its young red frond is the 'prehistoric looking' horizontal trunk lying on the ground with palms sprouting from them.

This is surely one of my best rare finds to date. :) Definitely hope to put a name to it and any comments or leads will be much appreciated! TQ

The Lipstick Palm #2

2010-11-30T11:23:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Cyrstotachys renda

Well, the countdown to the number of species at the KLCC Park has begun! Not sure if able to ID or recognise all the 66? species (74 even, in some communication). Having gone round the park twice, I didn't think there were that many but will try to. Hence, the start of TRY is here with some of the more common species and easily identifiable ones.

There were 2 groups of the clustering Lipstick Palms. The most obvious is the group on an 'island' nearest to the Mall. They look fabulous but due to separation by a wide margin of shallow water, could only capture a rather distant shot.

on park grounds

The 2nd group of red palms were found around mid park. Here's a merge of the two.

island escapade

The colour red will always be an impressive nature's show stopper!

The Asian Palmyra Palm #2

2010-11-27T03:55:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Borassus flabellifer

Also known as the Toddy Palm or the Sugar Palm, this group of ten stunning palm trees were enough to hold me spellbound for a few minutes. Just so awe inspiring!

The solitary trunks surrounded by leaf scars were beautifully adorned with parasitic ferns lending a soft touch to the well-manicured lawns.

The short stout petioles make for a tidy crown. These robust palms were about 20ft tall and were in different stages of their inflorescence stalks drying out.

As the park grounds were tidied earlier, chances of finding any dropped fruits would be rare as they'd probably be picked up daily since it's edible and quite delicious too. Luckily, a most recent descent helped me scoop this prized nut photo. About the size of a grapefruit, the mature fruit is brownish with purple streaks!

This palm species, self cleaning to boot, is definitely an attractive landscape addition for any large parks and gardens!

The Nibung Palm

2010-11-26T12:16:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Oncosperma tilligarium
a.k.a Nibung/Nibong (Malay)

As the KLCC Park was established in 1980, in a simplified way, the specimens seen here (at this park) would be much older than the 2 decade old park.

Native to South East Asia, this group of 'nibung' were among the first seen when I stepped out into the sunshine from the Park Mall wing of the complex, having alighted the LRT at the basement level. It was grown closest to the building. This is a pinnate clustering palm with gentle droopy fronds. Apparently one of the easier species to recognise from afar.

The cluster with slender trunks were upright and tall (my estimate puts them at approx. 30ft). Being planted beside the building, this group enjoys partial shade.

droopy

placid warning

While the bright green fronds swayed in the gentle breeze, the intense black spikes on the stems presented quite a menacing sight. It wasn't till I backed away that I noticed the yellow warning signs, 3 altogether. Had to laugh because the posts were signed inward, facing the palm cluster, as opposed to signing outward to warn the public! That I managed to read it upon retreating meant I had encroached on danger zone! :)

Did not notice any inflorescence nor fruit at this time.

In native communities throughout SE Asia, the 'nibung' stems are used as a hard wood to support the building and flooring of huts. Deadly job all that de-needling? Meanwhile, the fronds are used for roofing and also, woven into baskets. Makes me appreciate these true 'green' eco-warriors!

The Scenic KLCC Park

2010-11-25T23:11:00.005+08:00

Decided the night before (after a heavy downpour), that this morning would be best to see some refreshing greens at a public park after a seasonally hot and dry week. Procrastination had been keeping me off this project and it's time to jump start the engine again...

Diligently joined the morning rush hour passengers to KLCC from Masjid Jamek LRT station. It's a convenient 3 stop ride even though it's standing room only. For me, just wanted to be there bright and early, much cooler too!

impressive

The famous Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) mega development houses the iconic Petronas Twin Towers and the exquisitely posh Suria Mall. Adjoining, is an amazingly serene green lung designed to soften the masses of cold hard steel and concrete. Such a delightful area of peaceful calm, filled with chirpy bird calls, gentle rolling greens merged with a man-made lake, a wading pool and an enormous children's playground.

Designed by renowned Brazilian landscape architect, Roberto Burle Marx (1909-1994), the 20 hectare park was aimed to "leave the world a little more sensitive and a little more educated to the importance of nature". Amongst the nearly 1900 indignenous trees, 66 species of palms (yes!) were planted to encourage bio-diversity as well as selected tree species to attract local and migratory birds.

jogging track

restful

stellar

Obviously, need more than a couple of visits to appreciate this park in general and the many palm species in particular. Some are new to me and found it really exciting to have seen them here.

Pity, all the palms were not named on signposts, only some specific indigenous trees been tagged with that information.

The Bottle Palm #3

2010-11-15T10:37:00.001+08:00

Botanical Name : Hyophorbe lagenicaulis

As posted earlier, this native of Round Island in the Mascarenes is such a delightful palm to look at. Its structure is compact and unique. One can't help but think of a particular soft drink bottle it represents!

Prefers part shade but so far, all those sighted locally have been planted in full sun! Perhaps, explains the yellowing of the feather leaves from the recent hot spell. This is quite a hardy plant as long as there is adequate water (rain, of course!).

award-looking statuette

group specimen @ Prince Hotel & Residences, Jalan Conlay, KL

A robust and attractive palm, this space saving sculpture is lovely for the front lawn of any tropical landscape.

Beauty & The Beasts

2010-11-09T12:35:00.001+08:00

Admittedly, this is a non-palm post - an acute diversion from what I set out to find over the long weekend just past.

Instead, it turned out to be quite an unexpected yet interesting find of the commercial, correction, alien kind! Both acts caught the curious attention of mingling crowds including passers-by like myself, on a busy Saturday noon right smack in the Bukit Bintang 'shop till you drop' district in KL.

Promotions of new products and services were taken to new heights with these extraordinary and extraterrestrial outfits.

bedazzled @ Fahrenheit 88

androids in town

The above picture collages were created on www.picnik.com. It's free, easy to apply and I think the results appealing!

The Mayotte Bismarck Palm #2

2010-11-07T12:38:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Bismarckia nobilis (green form)

It's probably quite a coincidence catching the green Bismarckia at Lorong Maarof, prior post, with bunches of inflorescence but beyond my reach to record as they were way too high up (15ft +).

A thought came to mind to re-visit the earlier lot at Mutiara Damansara to check if these were flowering and fruiting too, assuming tis' the season...

As I strolled into the park and this time around, more confident about this Bismarckia green form being indeed the Mayotte Island Bismarckia and guess what???

productive

trailing bunches

Several of the palms were heavily laden with infructescence and that was quite a remarkable sight. While the fruits look the same as the fruits of the silver Bismarckia, at a glance, one might even say like olives!

leaf with cotton-like twirls

As I walked away from the park, I wondered what a lamentable loss it would have been had that 'Lorong Maarof moment' didn't strike me it did then...

The Mayotte Bismarck Palm

2010-11-07T09:37:00.001+08:00

Botanical Name : Bismarckia nobilis (green form)

Sighted along the lower end of Lorong Maarof, nearer to Jalan Bangsar, a collection of grand Bismarcks - the silver and green species planted alternately in a row.

My first impression was that the smaller silver Bismarckia could be added on at a later date. It wasn't till available information stated that the Mayotte Island species is markedly larger and taller, some nearly twice the height of the same age silvers, that it buzzed!

The Mayotte native's rate of growth is faster than its Madagascan counterpart with the former having originated from a wetter climate.

It's not often the two are planted so close together so this is a rare chance indeed to observe both, side by side. The contrast in colour and height is amazing!

green with inflorescence

Deepavali | Festival of Lights

2010-11-07T03:46:00.002+08:00

The Hindu and Sikh communities of Malaysia observed Deepavali or Diwali on 5Nov., according to the lunar calendar. For them, it is the most important festival of the year, with families performing prayers and religious rituals over five days to celebrate the victory of good over evil.

The national holiday is marked by visiting celebrants (known and unknown!!) and sharing in their festive spread, usually of traditional cakes and goodies or even a cultural feast known locally as "open house"!

Of note is the 'kolam' or sand painting decoration at the front entrance of homes or commercial enterprises to herald the festive mood. It is created with coloured rice and rice powder, usually a very vibrant and symmetrical art piece, simple or intricate.

Am really impressed with this "piece de resistance" @ Pavilion KL by students of limkokwing University of Creative Technology.

skillfully executed

proud

garment of orchids

spectacular plumage with 'eyes'

The Mangroves of Kuala Selangor Nature Park

2010-11-05T02:01:00.002+08:00

kuala selangor

3Nov. with perfect weather, a group of volunteers coached out to Kuala Selangor , a 1.5hrs drive from KL city. Our task primarily was to steadily rehabilitate an area of mature mangrove forests that had been indiscriminately cleared for commercial activities.

Fortunately, it was discovered and stopped in time by the Malaysian Nature Society. Nevertheless, the damage had been done and now, through regular media attention, more people and corporations are aware of this dilemma and are offering funds and resources to heal this particular area.

devastation

The best place to start this education was afforded us at the peaceful retreat of the nature park run by a team of passionate and ever vigilant staff members of the MNS. Lots more interesting information on the importance and protection of the mangrove ecosystem in our environment, effects of global warming, habitat flora & fauna including tourist accommodation and migratory bird watching can also be found at KSNP Malaysia.

MNS office

Mangroves serve as an intertidal buffer zone and stabilises the coastal areas especially the west coast of Peninsula Malaysia. It is also a major nursery for the provision of habitat for marine life. It's hard to imagine that the smelly (yes, smelly!) muddy flats come "alive" teeming with such a diverse collection of molluscs, colourful crustaceans, small fishes (mudskippers) and microorganisms.

Sonneratia alba (respiratory root species)

Rhizophora mucronata (stilt root species)

entrance to mangrove planting site

"how to" with traditional implement on the left

mucking in

newly planted - 300 saplings for the day

sapling planted 4months ago

after 2 years

great looking 'fences'

Despite some hilarious 'stuck in the mud' situations (anxious, for those involved!!) we managed to complete task in 2hrs, by which time, the midday sun was scorching.

Headed back to the park and were given complimentary use of hostel facilities to clean up prior to a well deserved lunch for the famished bunch - a bit of exercise certainly helped whet the appetites...

Distance from KSNP to mangrove planting area :-
- 10mins by aircond coach
- 10mins by non-aircond old school bus (off road conditions)
- 500m walk to tent site (collect wellies, gloves and bottled water)
- another 200m walk from tent site to planting site (squishy, squashy muddy ...)
Reverse sequence for return trip.

The Pink October Month

2010-11-04T08:55:00.001+08:00

How the month has flown! This belated post is in conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness, a global campaign held during the month of the 10 each year for the last 25 years!

Being in the "pink of health" has and always will be a notable ideal until some malignant cell illness strikes us or our loved ones or anyone we know, that this colour term suddenly takes on its appropriate true meaning.

However, being aware and informed is half the battle won. Detailed information can be sought at the Pink Ribbon International Organisation.

And for the first time ever, the historical Sultan Abdul Samad Building in KL was 'dressed' in pink to highlight this noble cause!

Areca catechu in foreground

trunk of Roystonea regia

pretty in pink

The Ivory Crownshaft Palm

2010-10-31T15:24:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Pinanga dicksonii

Noticed this elegant palm beside the BSC carpark perimeter wall in Bangsar awhile back. Couldn't really match it to any tropical specimen thus far.

Its bright green, droopy pinnate leaves kind of led me to think it might be the Acai (Euterpe oleracea) or Jucara (Euterpe edulis) palms however its profiles ended with more differences than similarities.

It has grown a lot taller since 3months ago (the tallest of the cluster nearly doubling in height). A mid sized cluster with well appointed gray cane stems, it was well positioned for shade or semi shade with early morning sun.

The most attractive feature being its smooth, light yellow crown shaft and gentle drooping fronds. A delicate attractiveness that has few comparisons.

As it is grown amongst waist high hedging and deep into the wall side, it's not possible to verify its trunk base or root system.

bifid tip

If any visitor has another opinion on what this specimen could be, I'd appreciate and look forward to hear and learn from you. Many thanks :)

Updated 5Nov.10
Special thanks to follower harvinsky who positively ID this specimen as the Pinanga dicksonii.

A native of the Andaman Islands in India, a robust and cold tolerant species. Thrives in the warm equatorial heat as well, indirect sun is preferred. Clustered but occasionally spread out due to horizontal underground stolons.

The Silver Bismarck Palm #3

2010-10-31T07:27:00.001+08:00

Botanical Name : Bismarkia nobilis (silver form)

Strolling along Lorong Maarof in Bangsar, KL one could be mistaken for being transported to the wonderful island of Madagascar, affectionately known as "no place else on earth" for its ultra unique (weird?) flora and fauna.

Having "surveyed" the top half of this street (both sides) earlier for its multiples of Foxtail Palms (Wodyetia bifurcata), the grand numbers of Bismark Palms along its lower half (on one side only) is even more mind boggling!!!

Had I cared to count, there's 100 or more of the handsome and striking silver form. Such a massive streetscape is an extraordinary sight, not forgetting the local council's deep pockets for such a mega investment!

footpath archway

However, for me, the enjoyment is ALL mine :), as I took time to frame its most interesting and productive development, the various flowering and fruiting specimens.

miniscule light yellow blooms

fruity droops

largest bunch

dried out infloresence stalks

The Slender Lady Palm #2

2010-10-30T01:09:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Rhapis excelsa

The past month had been unseasonally hot and unbearably dry. Many plants including some palms were already showing signs of sun burn with fronds drying out ; turning brown and looking dehydrated. So this morning's thunderous shower had been a pleasant respite for man and nature. A few drops of rain does bring a crisp freshness into the otherwise, dull looking plants.

Noticed a lively difference to this batch of 'freshly rained on' Lady Palms and think they look so perfect with the grand old Moorish architecture background.

front of Sultan Abdul Samad Building (Ministry of Information, Communications & Culture)

fresh & green

perky after the rains

pretty "moorish"

The Date Palm #2

2010-10-30T00:33:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Phoenix dactilifera

This is one (looks like two) palm that has defied the odds and also endure the adverse conditions to grow in a mound of dirt, which is a road divider, in front of Kelana Jaya LRT station.

Have been observing it on and off during my daily transit and wondered if it ever gets to grow to maturity considering the very tight spot it has found itself in, corseted by exposed cables, stones and concrete. Guess it's a careless toss of a couple of seeds out of the car window after consuming the fruit and they fatefully landed at this particular terra firma beside a monsoon drain.

Despite consistently blanketed by exhaust fumes spewing from non-strop traffic plying this route, it is looking none the worse for wear, most importantly had not darkened its overall outlook...

hardy & resilient

untidy

prickly 4-5in spines

The Hispaniola Palm

2010-10-25T10:07:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Sabal domingensis

A native of the Hispaniola island in the Carribean, shared between the Dominican Republic and Haiti. This is a robust and very adaptable palm taking in extreme cold to drought conditions in its stride. Also known as the Dominican Palm.

Had 2nd thoughts about this neglected posting... since sighting this rare Sabal with flowers and fruits (3 months ago) cause even then, to my untrained eyes, this one was in dire distress. Some kind of affliction which I really can't pinpoint. Here, we get to see its glory (inflorescence + fructescence) despite its poor health.

The palm has varying green costapalmate (half fan shaped and half in divided leaflets) leaves which arched outwards with fingers of the leaflets further split into two giving them a thready look. Seeing them limped and drooped, as though in its last stages of life, was rather disturbing. Wonder what went wrong!

branches of flowers

The elongated floral bouquet of creamy white flowers (male and female) stretched out even longer than the length of its leaves, bursting with bunches of small green fruits which mature on turning purple.

specimen @ The Curve, PJ

It's quite a wonder to see the upper part of its solitary trunk cross-wrapped or 'weaved' in remnants of leaf bases known called 'bootjacks' or 'boots'. Due to its tan colour, could say it's almost leather-like!

Next best feature, was that the petioles are smooth, all without spines.

'boots' not made for walking

limp with white spots beneath the leaves

beautiful at night with decorative lights

The Sabal d. could reach heights of 30ft+ and looking at this specimen, there's probably another 2/3 of growth to achieve. Hope it's been tended to and recover soon...

Note to self : to post updated pic of this specimen

The Thai Dwarf Lady Palm

2010-10-20T23:58:00.001+08:00

Botanical Name : Rhapis subtilis

Have always wondered if I'd ever find a flowering Rhapis in the local landscape. So, what joy it is to find the rarer still, flowering subtilis. I had originally mistaken this plant to be the multifida! But information sourced has it that the multifida in cultivation are mainly male plants.

As I've not seen any Rhapis inflorescence before, so here's another of my exceptional sighting...

They arose interfoliar, between the stems and the petioles in brown papery bracts. Once opened, they display tiny, stiff looking, green buds on small branchlets.

tip of the inflorescence

I've gone for a close ups which probably did not turn out as well as expected. Anyway, just knowing what this Rhapis inflorescence look like is good enough for me. Actually, reminds me of some local weeds/wild grasses in seeds.

flowering R.subtilis palm

cane cluster

The Blue Latan Palm #2

2010-10-20T23:42:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Latania loddigesii

Flowering and fruiting events are, to me, such rare and special opportunities especially when one is not consciously looking. Sometimes when I deliberately set out to do so, they were about 10's of metres high, way beyond my cat's eye scan.

Being at the right place at the right time is a major luck factor for a wandering blogger and to find several of the same species displaying the various stages of the inflorescence development, yay! that's serendipity.

Here's my wonderful "national geographic" moments, a sequence I have not witnessed prior.

The Round Leaf Fan Palm

2010-10-18T11:47:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Livistona rotundifolia

Looking at this 'cute' young fella, can't help but think how appropriate it's name is. While also known as the Footstool Palm, the former description couldn't be more apt. I like this perfect, rotund and happy face look.

here comes the sun

The ground's obviously hard and dry which is not a problem for this adaptable fella. So just watch out for the sharp spines along its petioles.

Now too, I understand and appreciate why palm enthusiasts only grow theirs from tiny seeds and monitor every inch (cm) of its progress. A salute to the 3Ps, passion, patience and persistence. Perhaps, add another P too, the price, as rarer species costs a lot more.

The Palm Surround Playground

2010-10-18T10:41:00.001+08:00

If there ever be an outdoors knowledge playground for children to learn about tropical palms, this might be the perfect location for it, in residential Setia Eco Park, Shah Alam.

Nestled in the cool shade and surrounded by several species of mid sized mature palms, this cheerful playland is an open invitation for the young, restless and energetic juniors. Ah! what joy to be that young again ;), if only I knew then to appreciate the trees around me.

The Triangle and Foxtail Palms in the background

Queen palms with inflorescence, clusters of Lady Palm at the back

one of the nearby Lady Palm clusters

deserted during the day

Behind the Queens are several Golden coconut palms, being tidied by park gardeners at the time this picture was taken.

Playtime is usually reserved for the evenings when the setting sun casts its low shadows and the late heat less intense. That's when this playground comes alive with carefree laughter and merriment of the children.

The Singapore Walking Stick Palm

2010-10-14T23:13:00.001+08:00

Botanical Name : Rhopaloblaste singaporensis / Ptychoraphis singaporensis
a.k.a. Kerinting (Malay)

Native to Malaysia and Singapore. There isn't much available information for this species online.

What really attracts me are the finest crown of bright green feather fronds. Pinnately arranged, it has that 'delicate' look to enthrall. So you can possibly see why I'm overboard with the feather frond shots... just such exquisite beauty!

Normally, a cluster palm however, here it is seen as both, solitary with a cluster slightly a meter away.

These are classed as small, tropical rainforest understory palms growing to less than 3m tall.Thrives in the moist, warm and sheltered areas. So these palms found in the basement car park level of the 1U shopping mall are positioned in perfect conditions.

The strong and straight stems are cut and polished to make sturdy walking sticks. At least now I know which type of mobility assistance tool to look out for should there be need for one in future ;)

I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud - William Wordsworth

2010-10-14T11:12:00.000+08:00

On going through my picture library, found this shot of a cloud which then jump started a spring in my head - reminiscent of the good old English literature days...

Livistona rotundifolia

I wandered lonely as a cloud

that floats on high o'er vales and hills,

when all at once I saw a crowd,

a host, of golden daffodils;

beside the lake, beneath the trees,

fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Continuous as the stars that shine

and twinkle on the milky way,

they stretched in never ending line

along the margin of a bay:

ten thousand, saw I at a glance

tossing their heads in sprightly dance.

The waves beside them dance; but they

out-did the sparkling waves in glee:

a poet could not but be gay,

in such a jocund company:

I gazed---and gazed---but little thought

what wealth the show to me had brought.

For oft when on the couch I lie

in vacant or in pensive mood,

they flash upon that inward eye

which is the bliss for solitude;

and then my heart with pleasure fills,

and dances with the daffodils.

William Wordsworth

1770-1850

p.s. if need be, I could substitute 'palms' for 'daffodils' but rhyme it would not!

The Carribean Royal Palm

2010-10-13T10:04:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Roystonea oleracea

Native to the Guadalope, Dominica and Martinique in the Lesser Antilles, Trinidad & Tobago, parts of northern South America, this is one of the neatest ornamental imperial palms seen to date.

Its solitary trunk is grey or whitish grey and may reach heights of over 100ft tall. Towards the top, encircled leaf sheaths make up its smooth green crownshaft. This magnificent looking palm has a crown of long pinnately arranged luxuriant feather fronds. Such a healthy green that is really pleasing to the eyes!

young one

self cleaning

a starfish in the sky

Its inflorescence comprise both male and female flowers and the elongated fruits turn purplish black when ripe which is interesting diet for our birds.

solid & sturdy

royal front @ 1U new wing

The tallest and most majestic of the royal palms, one certainly cannot dispute the fact. A very popular yet perfect landscaping choice for most commercial developments with huge gardens or on very wide avenues.
Makes for a grand feeling to be driven through such rows of exotic tropicals.

The Silver Date Palm

2010-10-10T01:28:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Phoenix sylvestris

Native to Southern Pakistan, India and Bangladesh, it is also known as the Wild Date Palm.

This Phoenix is very adaptable and grows in a wide range of soil conditions and tolerant of drought (not a problem here!) It has a robust trunk full of frond shaft remnants. Do grow quite tall, about 30-40ft and a huge crown of fronds comprising blue green leaflets in cross crossing arrangement.

This is quite a rare batch of mature Phoenix I have seen to date sited in front of the Lot10 Shopping Mall in Bukit Bintang. The most common for landscaping needs here are the Dwarf Date Palms (P. roebelinii)

Like all the other date palms, the lower ends of the petioles have sharp spines 3-4ins long.

The Phoenix is tapped for its sap and drunk fresh or fermented or made into a jelly.

2-3 leaflets cross crossing

So, it was with awe and wonder to find them right smack by the "frenetic" roadside, hounded by excessive traffic movement, foot and vehicular and subjected to the unthinking men's man-made restrictions.

noisy 24/7 neighbour (eaterie)

exhausted

collared

ouch! the overhead bridge

here's the address : Phoenix s. (left) , Dypsis leptocheilos on road divider

The Solitary Fishtail Palm #2

2010-10-09T23:31:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Caryota urens

From across the road, sighted an odd looking pair of the Fishtail palms in the foregrounds of the Medan Mara at Jalan Raja Laut. One looking fine while the other, on the right, looked rather unwell, its top unceremoniously and prematurely topped. By past observations, these are among the most luxuriant of palms with their well aligned, multi leaflet fronds.

But all's not doom and gloom for this pair. Looking up, it amazes me with its exciting "star burst" canopy. What a mesmerizing feature when it's only a handful of tidy fronds and hey presto! such a beautiful star against the clear sky...

How not to keep on looking at the bright side of things? Nature's art is everywhere, just need to "see" it and appreciate its mystical wonder :)

As for the unfortunate one, believe it's been under attack of some kind, diseased or man made, looking at the long crack line on its trunk, am unsure :(

The Thai Mountain Fishtail Palm

2010-10-05T00:09:00.001+08:00

Botanical Name : Caryota gigas

This attractive row of the Mountain Fishtail palm stands attentively along the busy highway across the road from the Kelana Jaya LRT station.

looking out from the LRT station platform

A native of the Himalayas, the Mountain Fishtail is also known as the Black Fishtail Palm. Its leaflets are different to the other fishtail species in that its leaflets are rounded instead of pointy bat shaped.

These pinnate leaflets are slightly wavy and come in a fern-like arrangement. It is definitely stunning to view from afar and quite awesome when one stands beneath its wide girth. The firm leaflets appear to carry several green tones.

The dark solitary trunk carries prominent rings from the cleaning of old leaf fronds.

While they do like a sunny well drained position, these palms are still considered rather slow growing when compared with other caryota sp. In its natural habitat may reach heights of 20m while its leafy fronds may extend up to 2m wide.

This row of palms appear quite young and thus far, no sign of inflorescence nor fruits as yet.

The Rainforest B & B

2010-10-04T19:47:00.003+08:00

Serendipity played its hands in my discovery of a 'palmscape' of the totally unexpected kind. Looking out for palm trees in the city centre has always been an amazing adventure for me but coming across a place like this - felt like walking into the woods and finding Goldilocks' abode.

But this quaint little "forest home" is located right smack in busy Bukit Bintang, the heart of KL's golden commercial triangle. A welcoming, cool and green flora facade is beckoning...

Wow! From the outside, my eyes were drawn to the various trees, palms and flowering plants planted on tiered levels of its 3-storeyed rooftops and windows, presenting a calm oasis for some weary back-packers waiting to be checked-in.

Ptychosperma macarthurii - tropical welcome

an eco-home in the concrete jungle

Fatty Ma restaurant next door

iron clad antique doors and interior decorations

The interior and reception area while small was genuinely cosy, gently awash by the natural sunlight coming through the door frame.

Wishing for a cold drink (alcoholic or not) in hand, this could be a shangri-la of the local B&B kind.

Showcasing Palms | Medium-Large

2010-10-04T11:20:00.005+08:00

Around the city, some palms in pot planters take on a larger scale especially with the bigger palm species destined for stunning landscaping effect. While some are indeed puzzlingly small (to me), others on opposite scales, pretty 'ginormous'.

Adonidia merrillii

Livistonia rotundifolia

In ordinary gardening circumstances, one would get a proportionate pot size considering future growth and size development of a particular plant. And if I could simply equate that to buying shoes for a young child - smart parents always get a pair which is a size up. But another analogy springs to mind, whereby in traditions of old China, "foot binding" was the ultimate feminine beauty - keeping it small!

cute @ Maju Junction, KL

It appears some are destined for their root ball to be tangled into a globular mass or ultimately due to some rebellious streaks, crack the confines. Through blustery thunderstorms, a common enough weather pattern in the equatorial region, must say, these potted palms have maintained their balance well.

Livistona chinensis

3ft H x 3ft W spotted at Menara Millenium, Damansara Heights

Livistona rotundifolia

5ft H x 5ft W dot the main entrance @ KL Sentral (rail transit) Station

To each their own, and here lies our landscape diversity...

Dypsis lutescens in an average sized pot

The Date Palm

2010-10-04T02:06:00.003+08:00

Botanical Name : Phoenix dactylifera

The date palm is native to North Africa. According to records, it is also one of the earliest palm species to be cultivated by humans and for the people of North Africa and the Middle East, their sweet edible fruits are a nutritious food source. This species is known as the only 'true' date palm and is cultivated commercially for its delicious fruits.

Photo credit : Annie K

The palm is multi-stemmed when young and its surrounding suckers be removed to maintain a solitary trunk for its successful development. Fading leaf scars eventually create a diamond shaped pattern on its trunk. The greyish-green pinnate fronds are made up of leaflets arranged in a V-formation. However, it should be noted that the lower petioles are made up of sharp spines 3-4in long.

Photo credit : Annie K

The oblong fruits are approximately 1.5in long. They are formed from the flowers of the female plant.

Sun dried dates are readily available throughout the year in Malaysia. During the Muslim fasting month, some shops were also selling the seasonally imported fresh fruits.

dried sweet dates

The pointed seeds of the dates (fresh or dried) grow easily when put into soil (ground). It is likely to be productive and bearing fruits at 7-10years provided there is a male plant in the vicinity!

Note : Palm photos courtesy of Annie K.who planted this specimen, now 2years young, from a seed (fresh).

The Blue Latan Palm

2010-09-24T22:19:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Latania loddigesii

This stunning native of the Mascarene islands is a close relative of the Bismarkia nobilis. At a quick glance, it would be easy to mistake it for the silver bizzie.

The slightly swollen dark grey trunks are said to be ringed though it is not obvious here due to a layer of blackish moss covering.

The bluish green colour of the petioles run all the way right up to the small veins of huge costapalmate leaves. These greyish green leaves are held upright. Also noted are thick patches of orange brown wool (scurf?) found on the lower arms of the petioles.

It's wonderful to see large stalks of compact golden flowers arising from amongst the leaves. Am not certain what its blooms smell like but peculiarly, they attracted some large flies instead of the usual bees.

dried inflorescence

Guess have missed the opportunity to see its brownish-green, plum shaped fruits or possibly, this being a male plant?

Showcasing Palms | YTL Park Sentul

2010-09-24T10:38:00.005+08:00

This serene palm lined boulevard belongs to the newly developed Sentul West KL, an exclusive high rise housing and retail project through quaint, old railway land. A thoroughly nature-friendly lifestyle concept with 35acres of private park to indulge, the envy of all weary souled, rat-raced city dwellers.

imperial HOMEs

a royal entrance

A couple of Footstool Palms aka Roundleaf Fan Palm (Livistona rotundifolia) and two Carribean Royal Palms (Roystonea olearacea) stood sentry (besides the security guards, of course) at this part of the gateway to the exclusive enclave. Further down, on either side, are rows of the Royal Palms (Roystonea regia).

L.rotundifolia by jogging track

Elaeis guineensis (African oil palm) near perimeter fence

L.rotundifolia beside old railway building in the park

Unfortunately, taking of photos at this private park, even for non-commercial activities, are not allowed without written permission! So needless to say, I was stopped abruptly in my tracks by their patrolling security personnel.

Until the next time.... other palm species, ciao!

p.s. to self - saw a monitor lizard basking in the sun on grassy ground next to pond (sorry no pic!)

Showcasing Palms | Small-Medium

2010-09-23T12:35:00.004+08:00

Guess there is no limit as to the types of containers (pot planters) one could choose to grow the palms in, as well as enhance the interior and surrounds.

Given we have several large manufacturers of clay products locally, as well as imports from China, there is indeed a very wide selection available. Depending on factors such as palm size, ornamental values up to and including owner/designer's inclination, think I've just woken up to an idea!! (sorry for the suspense, will post later if it eventuates?).

Here are some I've come across to date, both modern and traditional. Certainly there are lots more terracotta, ceramic, plastic, metal and 'anything-goes' type of pot planters which I didn't plan on capturing just yet...

at hotel entrance (oops! a head in the background)

inside travel agency

along walkway to hotel restaurant

outside private home

inside shopping mall

at stairwell of traders' association

at a restaurant

Somehow I feel every combination is like a little story. Can almost say it reflects its surrounds. So, which one are you?

The Royal Palm

2010-09-23T10:58:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Roystonea regia

It was at this peaceful, central city cricket field that old Malaya, then in 1957, proclaimed her independence from British Administration. Eversince, this historical piece of land has been the meeting ground for resplendent annual parades and exuberant New Year countdown celebrations.

along Merdeka Square, KL

This location is lined with a row of beautiful, now very mature majestic Royal Palms.

A native of Southern Florida, Mexico and parts of Central America it is also known as the Cuban Palm and similary the Florida Royal Palm (R. elata) is now recognized as one and the same species.

It's commonly planted in groups in wide open spaces and along spatial roads or even exclusive avenues where they definitely command full attention. They are really tall (about 40ft+), with solid columnar grey trunks, smooth green crown shafts, complete with an attractive umbrella of 'shaggy' feather fronds. Due to their height, these ornamental canopies offer little shade.

across the Square, stately Sultan Abdul Samad Building

outside Pasar Seni (Central Market) KL

The smooth solid grey trunks are slightly swollen around the mid trunks while the feather fronds are arched and bowing. This impressive regal deportment makes them a popular choice to grace avenues and wide boulevards in both old and new city developments.

This species of palm are regular bloomers, bearing large bunches of pale cream coloured flowers developing into tantalising fruits of half an inch wide which attract birds and bats alike.

Migrating palms | How to

2010-09-22T02:46:00.002+08:00

From my observation, not many home gardeners here would ever try to grow their palms from seeds. However, one such exception I'd come across was where my sis said she'd put a fresh Arabian Date seed (after consuming the delicious fruit, of course) into an available plant container with hardened topsoil and it duly sprouted! Picture to be posted later. The Date Palm

But this post is not about tending to vulnerable palm seedlings but rather how 'teenager' palms are commercially transplanted overnight and locked into position, the Malaysian way!

Here, we're too busy even for Palm101 basics. Secondly, it's not 2nd nature to grow anything from packets of little black-brown grains (seeds). Thirdly, impatience could probably have been our invisible middle name...

Hence, plants especially biggish palms are dug (goodness knows where from?) and trucked to order (I mean specific sites) and lodged into position. Voila! instant tropical appeal which could have taken decades to grow. Therefore, to ensure these do not topple or sway, a trig (a triangular crutch made from wood) is built around its trunk to keep the rootball steady while the palms find their feet in the new location.

foxtail palm on the mend

extra fabric for padding

The above set up has been there for at least 3months while the ones below I caught sight of them being planted about 4months ago.

straggler

chinese fan palm doing well

tripod stand

Another lot of Footstool Palms I'd noticed transplanted 2 months back at a Police Barracks in KL had since disappeared completely from sight and site. It would be a shame if perhaps they didn't make it.

Now, I have no idea just how much longer these supports should be there for...

The Princess Palm

2010-09-22T00:12:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Dictyosperma album

This most elegant species is native to the Mascarene Islands. It is also known as the Hurricane Palm due do its ability to withstand strong hurricane force winds.

The graceful pinnate fronds which can twist and arch due to its flexible midrib gives the leaves its curved appearance. The perfect and evenly spaced leaflets are a wonder to observe.

front entrance of Muzium Negara (National Museum)

The solitary trunk is dark grey and ringed. These specimens are about 20ft and had inflorescences which hung from beneath the light green crown shafts. Pity a bit too tall to capture its blooms.

To me, they appear to be one of the most beautiful of tropical palms, aptly named, and exquisitely ornamental but somehow wonder why it's any less popular as a landscape plant when compared to the huge cement-like pillar trunks of the majestic palms.

It is thought to be less drought tolerant but in the typical Malaysian context we have the perfect recipe mix for its royal health, lots of rainfall, high humidity and bright sunshine.

The Red Edged Pandanus

2010-09-19T01:28:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Pandanus utilis

This is one of my favourites because it looks so similar to the Cuban Petticoat Palm (Copernicia macroglossa). Nevertheless, I want to include it here due to it being a close relative of the palm.

A native of Madagascar and Mauritius, this is a handsome tropical tree, not a pine despite being named the Screw Pine.

It is easy to fall for the look of this plant due to its unique design. The flat linear leaves are arranged in a circular fashion around its central axis and fan out at regular intervals in an upward twirl. However do beware that the edges of the leaves bear small sharp spines which could cause an allergic reaction on contact.

upward twirl

In some countries, these dried leaves are made into household items like weaved mats and baskets or used as thatching materials.

colour contrast

The mature tree grows well above 25ft and more. The female plants (flowers) will bear showy pineapple-like fruits, though edible they're not particularly delectable.

equidistant

Architecturally, this makes a stunning landscape piece or focal point in any garden. Its strong aerial roots prop up the plant as though on stilts. It's also called a "walking palm" as been known to move from one spot to another. Just fancy that!

This young specimen sighted at waters edge lakeside Setia Eco Park, Shah Alam.

The Dwarf Betel Nut Palm #2

2010-09-18T11:17:00.003+08:00

Botanical Name : Areca catechu (dwarf)

The recent long pause was a kind of "writer's block" for which I have yet to get a proper breakthrough. Fortunately, this being a leisure blog, where I can get away lightly. However, the "blogage" still exists for now, basically over my own confusion about the peculiarity of Royals, Kings, Queens and Princesses (palms, that is!).

So, thought I'd leave those awhile longer and delight myself with a batch, 13 altogether (a superstitious number?), of young Areca catechu (dwarf) recently sighted at Rivercity, Jalan Ipoh, KL.

pot fencing

budding

green as jade

tight fronds

petiole scars in the making

ringed & stout

Earlier post also refers The Dwarf Betel Nut Palm.

The Chinese Fan Palm

2010-09-15T04:02:00.003+08:00

Botanical Name : Livistonia chinensis

A native of Japan, Taiwan and southern China, this palm is also known as the Fountain Palm due to its weepy look.

Today's trip to Petaling Street in downtown KL saw the usual crowded atmosphere of out-of-town holiday makers, bargain hunters and foreign tourists looking for fake? yes, imitation brand name products at "negotiable" low prices. Chinatown was what the colonial British called this immigrant enclave in its early days. However, over time, it had developed into a prosperous trading centre, its unique day and night market where cheap designer watches, bags, shoes, T-shirts, CDs, VCDs etc are being snapped up with brisk sales.

gateway to Chinatown

Okay, going there specifically for roast pork lunch was only a guise. I'd been interested since the city council's refurbishment back in 2007 whereby the inclusion of palm trees, Livistonia chinensis, have added some greenery to the otherwise run down pre-war buildings and stuffy sidewalks. All these happened while I was away including the installation of a new blue polycarbonate roof in 2009 to make shopping more pleasant in the otherwise sweltering heat (or heavy downpours).

Must say I am of two minds about this kind of landscaping. Fencing in the palm is neither kind to the plant nor appreciative of its space requirements. With much commercial interests going on throughout the day and night, these palms are rendered no TLC. Instead they stuck out like sore thumbs, at intervals, on both sides of the busy street.

Even the roof tiles of the stalls were arranged around the trunk of the palms, giving the impression that the palm grew out of the little green roofs. Everything else was concreted over leaving little space for the rootball. And while traders went about their daily businesses, the columns of palm trunks were practically used as pillars for the display of goods or anchor to tie sheets of canopies (in case it rains!).

reach for the sun

The leaves are costapalmate - part fan, part feather shaped and has short spines along the lower half of the petioles. There is no crown shaft and the palm may reach 25ft high. Luckily, this is a carefree palm and adaptable to varied soil conditions. This palm is easy to grow and bears bunches of small purplish black fruits.

So what's life like for these unpampered palms in such cramped conditions?

thriving

duh!

Growing up in such restrictive environment certainly has its challenges, reach for the sky (roof!), anyway...

The Asian Palmyra Palm

2010-09-14T11:35:00.001+08:00

Botanical Name : Borassus flabellifer
aka Lontar (Malay)

Sighted this pair of young Asian Palmyra palms in terracota pots gracing the southern entrance of The Curve (in front of Secret Recipe).

Also known as the Sugar Palm, Toddy Palm and Celestial Tree. This species is native to Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia right up to Indian continent where it is cultivated for its economic importance.

These are kind of large plants and may reach up to 12m tall. The thick black trunk is hard and surrounded by dried scars of the petioles.

This species is best planted in a hot and sunny position as it thrives in the sun together with well drained soil. Also quite tolerant of dry conditions.

The edges of the petioles are lined with short spines so do beware!

young trunk

semi-circular costa

The palmate leaves are bluish green in colour. When mature, these could span 3m across.

Inflorescence of white blooms are followed by big, round purplish black fruits (quite like the round purple aubergine). Having glimpsed a large bunch of mature fruits along Bukit Kiara but missed the golden opportunity to take a photo!

Apparently all parts of this palm can be harvested for their various life-supporting functions and the list below is not exhaustive...only limited by one's imagination, I suppose.

fruits : translucent jelly like 'lychee' with a mild flavour

fibre covering jelly seed : eaten raw, boiled or roasted

sugary sap : made into jaggery palm sugar

sugary sap : fermented into an alcoholic beverage

tree sap : taken as a laxative

sprouts : a firberous and nutritious meal when boiled

germinated seed : cut to remove crunchy kernel which is similar to water chestnut

leaves : thatching, weaved mats, hats, baskets, umbrellas and writing material

trunks : construction material and fencing

crown : in India, the part where the leaves grow out from is made into a delicious cake

young plants : cooked or roasted as a vegetable

In many ways, similar to the Malayan coconut tree. One you wish to be surrounded with on Lost Island.

Palmyra curry, anyone?

Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2010 | Preserved Palms

2010-09-11T00:02:00.004+08:00

To Malaysians of Muslim faith, wishing you all a peaceful and joyous Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri !

happy children playing hopscotch

This pretty local country home was captured at The Curve shopping mall at Mutiara Damansara, PJ. I'd probably like to compare this scenario to that at nearby 1Utama as a tale of two malls, not only in terms of wholesome cultural exhibits but of the palmacae kind.

Noticed the palms in the background of this concourse area? The very tall palm exhibits do indeed command your visual presence. Preserved Phoenix Date palms to be exact. Hence, in terms of originality, absolutely zilch as I.ve yet to come across any majestic date palms of 10m or more in Malaysia. (I could be proven wrong!)

However, I'd give them top marks for practicality, little or no maintenance and considering the height of the cathedral dome, these palms complemented the spatial vastness and structure dynamics well.

Being in bountiful Malaysia, as nature bestowed, we'd be truly doomed should we ever run out of greenery or palms for that matter to enhance or facilitate any landscaped interiors. Looking closely at these kind of strange but fascinating palms, it makes sense. It's an absolute compromise. Partially real - the preserved trunks and nearly real, close replica - of the fronds, together they appear to be of reasonable quality to offer such realism.

preserved phoenix date palms

realistic

Light weight, easy to install, no caring for water nor lighting needs, as well as fire retardant. Best bits are that no trimming required and could be custom built to budget and specification. Hmm.... lovely, sets me thinking, a White Elephant Palm would be nice, literally!

Somehow, my mind's drawn back to the uncertain fate of the real palms left languishing at the other mall, a stone's throw away...

The Silver Joey Palm

2010-09-08T23:13:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Johannesteijsmannia magnifica

Being "unobservant" has definitely delayed my finding this uniquely attractive native of Malaysia and Thailand. It was near to the other equally stunning joeys (J. altifrons and J. lanceolata) but somehow I failed to spot not one but two, hidden away amongst other greenery.

It's such a perfect, healthy looking jade green plant I almost wish I could take it home!! Wah.. I could imagine all the 'rolling eyes' from the folks following this post... just exactly that, such a desirous plant if one were to see it and touch it.

The silverish underside is something else. It's velvety to the touch, like running your hands on a exquisite piece of velvet, so smooth that I can't physically see the very fine 'white hairs'. Well, I didn't have a magnifying glass on me.

Like any understory plant, this joey loves the shade and has such a crisp freshness with dark and bright green fronds as testament to being sited in the right spot. The large diamond shaped fronds are also evenly pleated along the length of the each leaf bar the clean jagged edges.

lending support to Dumb Cane

Each leaf is supported on a short thin petiole. Noticed that the petioles are an interesting line of lime green with dark green on the outer sides where short spines run along its length.

This joey does not have a trunk and the petioles rise directly from the ground. May reach heights up to 10 ft. in natural habitat.

A potted one or two would be equally as delightful!

The Hardy Palms | Transfer & On Hold

2010-09-08T21:31:00.000+08:00

Hmm...spied a few forlorn and displaced palms at the far end of a shopping mall compound. The blistering afternoon sun unleashed its power on these helpless plants leaning on a wall. But what on earth are these dug outs doing out there. It's hard to imagine... more like waiting to be baked ?

lean on me

There was a guy working nearby so I thought best to ask him. He just pointed to the direction inside the mall. It then clicked that there were palms exhibited inside as part of the Ramadhan festival. But that's been nearly a month since the exhibits were first put up.

Were these excess to requirements or were they meant for replacements as the earlier palm exhibits had since shown signs of distress and turned yellow, spectacularly wilting in high end shopping territory.

strait-jacket

Considering it's only another couple of days to the festival date, I'm not sure if these will eventually grace the surrounds in the cooler air-conditioned arena or suffer the consequences of neglect.

The crown and small root ball all bundled up in polythene for easy removal and transportation.

mass relocation

These two species, the coconut (cocos nucifera) and the betel nut (areca catechu) palms happen to be our most dynamic yet commonly exuberant species. Now, hardy isn't a word not associated with these types of palms. So, survive I hope they do...

The Foxtail Palm #2

2010-09-03T11:03:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Wodyetia bifurcata

One of the most difficult to spot (besides spotting various palm species!) for a novice like me, is that of the infloresence and frutescence of the palm trees. In tropical Malaysia, plants and trees flower and fruit in their own time since close to none are affected by seasonal changes which we don't have, other than the monsoon (more rain!) and non-monsoon months.

Anyone ever noticed how rare it is to see palm trees laden with fruits? Even if they have had, unannounced, to the non-attentive, one would have missed the most highlighted event in any palm's life.

Unlike the coconut and oil palms, where their fruit bearings are a regular feature on the tropical landscape what with the non-commercial species? Except for the few which I could count on the palm of my hand, sighting this arresting rows of Foxtail Palms with trailing frutescence in Bangsar KL (an upmarket residential suburb) was pretty awesome!

foxtailed in Bangsar

bunches of joy

Having caught glimpse of a bunch a week ago, felt I shouldn't leave it too long in case they get lopped off by the council maintenance team, eaten by frugivores or simply terminated by anti-social behavior especially with anything on public land! Fortunately, it was still there and perhaps a hundred, yes 100 more since the palms adorned both sides of a very long street!

The bountiful bunches held fruits in various stages of development. As any palm owner would yearn for, their labour of love coming to fruition and what a glorious sight above except for the mess created by the fallen ones below...

grounded

From the ground, I had my pick of 3 plump ones which looked like any delicious red plum or nectarine.

Here's a section of the fruit showing a thin layer of juicy orange flesh while exposing a black seed with silky surrounds. Apparently edible but bland according to some notes.

As for me, definitely not game enough to try an unmarketed fruit even though it looks safe to eat ;).

The Teddy Bear Palm

2010-08-28T22:45:00.004+08:00

Botanical Name : Dypsis leptocheilos/Neodypsis lastelliana

Somewhat somnambulous, I had taken a wrong turn to my destination this morning. However, the sight of 4 'handsome looking' young palms on a gentle grassy slope, made my day! Well, with any of my "new discovery" they warranted an immediate inspection eventhough I was running late!

Having come across its description while in search of other palm species, I probably wouldn't be able to visualize what it's exactly like. With some photos in the bag, it wasn't till curiosity dared me to touch/feel the brownish stuffs on the crownshaft. Not expecting anything other than the usual brown/rust powder, the fuzzy stuffs turned out to be soft and furry much like its namesake the teddy bear - so,so amazing!

respectful bows

tooth comb

A beautiful native of Madagascar, this elegant palm is most attractive to palm collectors. It is also known as the Redneck Palm. The evenly spaced deep green feathered fronds are delightfully droopy. But it's its unique reddish brown velvety fur known as 'tomentum' that is characteristic of this prized palm.

fuzzy

furry

velvety

It has a clean, solitary trunk of white and darker rings of scars from fallen fronds. As it had rained heavily overnight, the white trunk has darkened somewhat due to the wood being soaked.

A mid sized tree, it can grow up to 20-30ft tall. Prefers partial shade but in the tropics where there's nowhere to hide (from the strong late afternoon sun), a north-easterly or morning sun position is preferred.

The Teddy Bear Palm also bears small pale creamy yellow flowers followed by berry-like fruits. So, I should be vigilant and follow up on future fruiting!

An exciting collectible/addition to any indoor or outdoor gardens including open spaces. And for once, no prickly spines to worry one's pretty little head about!

The Macarthur Feather Palm

2010-08-23T09:00:00.003+08:00

Botanical Name : Ptychosperma macarthurii

Recently bumped into this huge, stunning palm along an old busy thoroughfare into the city's commercial golden triangle. Finding shade and support beside an old raintree, many would have passed it daily but I wonder if they'd even noticed. Whilst this species has been 'cooking in my oven' for a while, seeing this beauty has heightened its priority.

A native of New Guinea and the tropical parts of Northern Australia, this is a vigorous growing, clumping species. It has numerous stems with distinct annular rings and luxuriant, dark green, feather fronds with broader leaflets which exhibit a healthy profile to its surroundings.

Grown in shade or sun, this species is bound to soar high and most seen are around 5m-8m tall. But for those thriving in the shade, their ringed stems are stretched higher and the fronds exhibit a softer, more delicate feel than those hardened by the strong sun.

In tropical regions, most palms flowering will be very much dependent on plant health and associated conditions. And this species is no exception. Fortunately, found this specimen in fruit, pea-like on inflorescence stalks and maturing from yellow to red. Very attractive indeed, needless to say, how delicious too they are for the birds!

This palm species is also extremely tolerant to a wide range of soil conditions hence making it the palm of choice for any inch of available earth in home gardens, landscaped greens, along streets and motorways. Am certain too that non-green thumbs like myself can take a stab at growing some without much effort!

Grown in larger groups, they certainly provide an oasis for mankind and a lovely microcosm for the avian kind!

The Joey Palm #2

2010-08-21T11:18:00.000+08:00

Botanical Name : Johannesteijsmannia altifrons
(also known as Sal or Daun Payong in Malay)

Found this stunning group of young joeys at the forest floor of the 'Rainforest' at 1Utama, Damansara Utama in Petaling Jaya.

At first thought, I might have stumbled onto the lesser seen, much endangered Diamond Joey (J. magnifica) based on the silverish underside of the leaves. However, it was not to be. There were no fine white hairs at all. :(

diamond shaped leaves

young leaf shoot

silverish illusion

slim petioles

So similar in outlook to the J. magnifica but nonetheless, quite happy with this latest common Joey find.

More information available on previous post The Joey Palm.

The Spirit of Ramadhan @ 1Utama

2010-08-20T17:25:00.012+08:00

The rich cultural diversity of Malaysia allows its people to celebrate a few different 'new year' according to the various religious calendars. Malaysians of different ethnicity celebrate together and whenever a particular celebration is due, businesses and stores are appropriately decorated for these traditional festive occasions.

During the month of Ramadhan, (fasting month for the Muslim majority in this country), whereby forgiveness, guidance, self control, sacrifice and empathy for the less fortunate, are practiced, Muslims throughout the country are preparing for the much anticipated celebration at the end of the fasting period.

The tradition of 'balik kampung' literally translated means going home to one's village or original place of abode, is well underway with fares for all transport modes sold out. In particular, a metropolis like Kuala Lumpur, where many folks 'emigrated' from smaller towns and villages to work, many will also make the annual pilgrimmage back to their hometown to celebrate the joyous occasion with loved ones.

rural setting : thatched huts, palms + padi (rice) fields

A beautiful nostalgic rural scene has been set up in the main concourse of this particular shopping mall to herald in the mood for Hari Raya Puasa which falls on 10 & 11 September 2010.

Of note is the inclusion of live palms, especially the coconut (cocos nucifera) and the areca nut (areca catechu) palms into the setting to reflect their significant roles both economic, social and aesthetic in the livelihoods of villagers around the country.

scarecrow

threshing the stalks

separating husks from grain

bag it

In small rural farms, back breaking padi planting, harvesting, threshing, separating and packing methods shown above still use manual labour and primitive implements.

Besides decorating their homes, new clothes, shoes, presents and the gift of green cash envelopes make all the excitement worth the wait.

The Iguanura sp. Palm

2010-08-19T22:43:00.004+08:00

Botanical Name : Iguanura sp.

Found this rare and unusual palm in the Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve. It doesn't seem to be planted there but there aren't any around that was similar to this one. However, there were many (maybe say loads!) of Caryota mitis (Clustering Fishtail Palm) throughout the forest floor, which I plan to post later.

The leaves of the Iguanura sp. are bifids, split like the tail of a tuna fish but not completely divided and jagged at the tips. Has evenly pleated lines throughout the leaf.

A native of Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Borneo, this understory palm appears to thrive in partial shade with some sun and moist lowland soil.

let the sun shine through

simple leaf form

vibrant

From my observation, its stems are smooth, thin and segmented. Not much for support to grow upright.

This group certainly looks cute and attractive at about 4feet tall. Think they will make stunning house plants and a great match beneath taller palms for shade and accentuating the landscape.

Great find today! ;)

The Bukit Nanas Forest Reserve

2010-08-19T20:25:00.007+08:00

leafy canopy

We have had some very heavy rain fall for the past two days and somehow, it felt the right time to venture into a forest reserve for my new 'forest air bath' experience... ;-)

So this morning, I decided to make my way into the Bukit Nanas (translated Pineapple Hill) Forest Reserve in Kuala Lumpur, one of the oldest gazetted forests in the city, located a stone's throw away from another touristy landmark, the KL Tower.

Then known as the Bukit Weld Forest Reserve, it was gazetted in 1906 which now makes it more than a century old. Uniquely, this is also the last permanent piece of tropical rainforest (about 11 hectares of it) remaining in the heart of the city surrounded by high rised buildings. This forest plays an important role as the 'green lung' of KL. Apart from being an amenity forest, it is also serves as an education and research forest.

nearby KL Tower (421m)

information centre

Inside the Information Centre were displays of the rainforests' various dipterocarp hardwood tree species and their economic contribution to the country. Small handy and coloured trail maps were available for all interested taking in the nature trails. And to top it all, admission is free. Freebie sounds good already!

on site trail map + rubbish bin

So with map in hand, I was just out of the wild orchid area and ready to tackle the trails. I had not ventured far, when I heard a whooshing sound raced past me, brushing against my jeans on its marathon dash. Rooted to the spot, I caught sight of its back and form - a common palm civet or musang (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus). What a wonderful welcome to the rainforest!

entomophobia beware

It was warm and humid as expected despite it being late morning and the recent rain has definitely given the tranquil haven a fresher appeal. The sounds of the forest - leaves rustling, insects, birds chirping etc. a peaceful calm came over me. Sometimes, a falling twig or fruit seems louder in its serene stillness.

Perspiration aside, the persistent mosquitos were mildly (stating mildly perhaps an understatement) irritating - luckily I had with me my trusty jar of popular cure all "tiger balm" (just a brand, nothing to do with the endangered animals) which was the perfect repellent as well as relief from insect bites...

The trails were well signposted and well maintained. Just easy walking for all levels of fitness and age groups, some uphill ones and some down, some man made while others, natural, of course! The earthed slopes (deviated paths) could be a tad slippery after the rain though.

tiled

stony

wooded

sunlit

After nearly 2.5hours of walking and admiring all that's on offer in this majestic forest, I was thoroughly rejuvenated but hungry (despite a good breakfast). Unfortunately, they don't do cafe at the Information Centre. So, trotted off to the nearest McD to recharge the batteries!

The Red Sealing Wax Palm

2010-08-15T00:34:00.004+08:00

Botanical Name : Cyrtostachys lakka

One of the most attractive native palms in the country which is also be found in Borneo and the Sumatran archipelago. I have posted earlier on a younger specimen The Lipstick Palm but still feel this clump is rather unique with its sublimal differences.

Its synonym, Cyrtostachys renda, this species is also known by other common names such as the Lipstick Palm and the less referred, Rajah Palm.

Stunning as ever, its dark green feather fronds against the vivid scarlet trunks, red petioles and red crown shafts never fail to attract and impress me. Unlike some of the same species which clumps together with many young pups as offshoots, this specimen seems happy to stand solitarily as a group.

Also observed that the cane like trunks were of different colours eg. green, yellow, orange and red while the older canes appeared rather dull and grey.

Even the inflorescence stalks appear to be of different colours, some light green and some red.

How intriguing is that?

Could these be a factor of its genes, soil or even fertilizers. Mind boggling for me...but still a strong favourite for most home gardens and landscaped areas.

"Painting the town red " has definitely taken on a new meaning when you see so many clusters of them growing in the Dataran Merdeka (Independence Square) downtown!

Shinrin-yoku | Forest Air Bathing

2010-08-14T22:05:00.004+08:00

Now, before anyone gets any funny ideas from this title, it is certainly not what you think!

Rather than expecting to find a group of aged hippies washing themselves in a forest clearing, this is certainly more gratifying for the individual...

If recent trends in Japan is anything to go by, we hope that more people in Malaysia will learn about this and be encouraged by the practice of 'shinrin-yoku' meaning forest air taking + walking or forest air bathing. Basically a simple activity of visiting forests and nature parks for its therapeutic effects. How easy is that?

Now scientists have discovered that phytoncides (chemicals that prevent plants rotting and protecting them from insects) do provide a positive chemical influence on humans too.

Spending time outdoors have been said to be a greatest invigorator to the soul and mind and hence, brings about therapeutic health benefits, especially in stress management.

If many a time, one finds oneself totally recharged, rejuvenated, reinvigorated and refreshed after a leisurely walk in a nature park or the more energetic bush walks, now you know the answer. It's in the air!

So, do get out there and take your air bath. (oops! deep breaths)

The Slender Joey Palm

2010-08-13T00:55:00.003+08:00

Botanical Name : Johannesteijsmannia lanceolata

The most outstanding group of plants from the understory floor of the 'Rainforest' @ 1Utama Shopping Centre, were the Joeys. And this particular species is one of the rarest of the Joeys native to Peninsular Malaysia. How fortunate am I to find it inside a sub-urban shopping complex without tramping into the wild!

The glossy dark green, elongated leaves are undivided but evenly ridged. It certainly looks like a lance or blade of a sword, matches its name to a T. It may not be clearly seen here however each leaf is held by a short petiole and the clump of petioles arise from the ground.

as green as jade

Unknown to me earlier, this species actually has an underground trunking system hence not obvious to the naked eye.

This palm thrives in partial shade and a good amount of water (rainfall) to prevent its roots drying out.

They may be young now but given time, who knows if these 'sleek city dwellers' will fare just as well as their forest counterparts.

May reach an amazing 10ft tall and its leaves 1ft wide in its natural habitat. Given that this specimen is grown in an cultivated environment, it may or may not grow to that size but its flowering will certainly be quite an anticipated event. Looking forward to that if/when it happens.

The Madagascar Palm

2010-08-09T11:34:00.004+08:00

Botanical Name : Pachypodium lamerei

At first sight, this specimen does not look like a palm at all. More of a cactus based on my general understanding of cacti. But having glanced a similar specimen before, this just rang a bell!

A native of Southern Madagascar, this young specimen enjoys the full sun and may grow up to 15ft tall. Way to go, young one!

Its succulent grey trunk is well protected by a natural defense structure similar to 'barb wires'. These intimidating spines could be 2in long.

The elongated thin grey green leaves sit spirally on a crown, like a beautiful starburst at the top of the trunk.

clearly 'do not mess'

This odd looking specimen requires very little water and hardly branches out. Great for an exotic weird looking house plant with no maintenance. Just be very mindful when re-potting or handling - gloves, paper for wrapping etc.

2nd thoughts, a great plant to deter burglars too!

The Secret Garden of 1Utama #3

2010-08-09T00:09:00.011+08:00

Putting a pause on the Secret Garden is never easy. Since my first visit, there's always an urge to re-visit in order to see what changes nature has in store. What I have not done for awhile is to introduce to my followers and visitors alike, the rich feast of colours, textures, shapes and forms that this Secret Garden has accorded me.

I may not know all their pretty names and their tags were not neccessarily in its place since awhile ago, but I feel obliged to paint this post with what I have recorded to reflect more entries in its secret bosom.

Especially for flora art's sake, do enjoy the kaleidoscope... pity I can't post the 'fragrance' of local herbs, spices especially ginger rhizomes and their lovely flowers and other exquisite perfumed fragrances from flowers like the star jasmine or rangoon creeper.
(and if I'm missing out on certain colours of the palette, don't mind me, just colour-biased! ;-)

ceriman/swiss cheese plant (monstera deliciosa)

tubaroot vine (derris elliptica)

red ginger (alpinia purpurata)

asian foxtail (uraria crinita)

thai gold banana (musa siamensis)

saw palmetto (serenoa repens)

red ginger (alpinia purpurata)

rangoon creeper (quisqualis indica)

giant taro (colocasia gigantea)

Serenity rules...

The Raphis gracilis Palm

2010-08-08T21:59:00.008+08:00

Botanical Name : Raphis gracilis

Found this young, rather understated Raphis in the 'Rainforest' part of the shopping complex. Planted amongst taller native trees, palms and other green leafy plants, this was almost overshadowed.

Luckily, it didn't escape my not too sharp, palm-roving eye... but as yet, found no common name for this "graceful"? slender lady palm.

A native of Southern China, this palm has long and thin, green petioles. What's really striking about it is that each leaf has only 3-4 finger-like leaflets ending with a jagged but straight tip. Unlike the R. excelsa, the ridged leaflets are slightly broader and have a softer feel though slightly droopy.

The rich green leaves with its simple leaf form makes it an elegant and attractive indoor specimen.

sheathed stems

The single stems are loosely covered with brown fibres. Thrives in containers indoors or outdoors in partial shade. Like the other raphis, this is easy to grow and practically maintenance free.

The Secret Garden of 1Utama #2

2010-08-08T11:27:00.004+08:00

So far, the plants under the Secret Garden theme has been of the 'accent' type used in landscaping due to their architecturally distinctive features. Quite a number of those posted under this category are rarely seen elsewhere in Malaysia. And I agree!

Nevertheless, there are a couple which I have yet to identify due to missing tags. There are also similar species to earlier postings which I have taken liberty to omit due to duplication.

However, there are more species in the garden which are worth noting and their beauty unseen elsewhere with few exceptions.

Madagascar tree arum (Typhonodorum lindleyanum)

hibiscus - Malaysia's national flower

colocasia gigantea

C. gigantea flowers

down the garden path

orange trumpet creeper (pyrostegia venusta)

bamboo leaves

dried angled gourd
(luffa acutangula)

lowland fern tree (Cyanthea latebrosa)

tender shoots (fern tree)

fountain grass (Pennisetum advena)

torch ginger (Etlingera elatior)

Do make time to visit this exotic garden at leisure. Take time out to smell the herbs and the flowers. Where else can one get to go into a well planned and tended garden without admission fees? This is one advantage you'll not regret for taking...

The Split Leaf Cyclanthus

2010-08-05T01:06:00.005+08:00

Botanical Name : Cyclanthus bipartitus

The only species in its genus Cyclanthus - that's how rare and special this is. At first sight, it looks like an understory palm. Unfortunately, it isn't. Doesn't stop me here...

A native of Central America (Amazon), this rhizomous flowering plant can grow quite tall (6-8ft). Some class it as a herb but nothing mentioned about whether it being edible or not. It can be propagated by separating the rhizomes or by leaf cuttings (a sneaky thought just came to mind :-)) or even the fruits floating or carried away by water.

The broad leaves are split about midway, though some have deeper splits while others less so and follows along two separate veins after the split. Noticed that some are even split right into two parts. The leaves are elongated, light to medium green and slightly textured. Each leaf is borne on smooth, thin green stems like petioles arising from the ground.

six footer

This big healthy clump is really attractive. Thrives in the humid and wet rainforest understory. One really has to see it to appreciate its stunning tropical beauty.

partial split

half split

full split

It bears small clusters of sweet smelling flowers. I am enticed by a photo in flickr.com with regard to its 'inflorescence'. It actually looked like an interesting yummy dessert concoction from the deliciously delectable 'Death by Chocolate'. So, am certainly dying to see it...

Lastly, if wary its spread by rhizome could potentially make it an invasive plant, suggest just pot it!

p.s. credit to palmtalk.org members for assisting to match this stunning rare plant to its name.

The Silver Bismarck Palm #2

2010-08-04T01:15:00.002+08:00

Botanical Name : Bismarckia nobilis

Further to earlier post The Bismarck Palm, this is one humongous and healthy specimen located at The Secret Garden. As for its age, I probably cannot tell. But the girth or circumference of its trunk, easily 40-50 inches thick. So one very stocky palm indeed.

This native of Madagascar, named after the first German Chancellor, Otto von Bismarck, is the most obvious choice for new landscape ideas in terms of its dynamic structure and colour. Certainly,the most recognizable guy around town!

Its enormous silver/blue palmate leaves are about 5ft wide and deeply furled. Looking closely at the petioles, you will notice a white wax coating plus some cinnamon-brown dusted powder nearer the leaf ends.

The Ornamental Red Banana

2010-08-03T22:45:00.004+08:00

Botanical Name : Musa laterita

Sometimes, I feel the Secret Garden should be renamed the Enchanted Garden. For me, it's full of surprises as each time I make the trip, I get to see something new, like I'd somehow not noticed before, suddenly appearing in front of my eyes.

New specimens that I'd missed, changes to existing plants since my last trip to the rooftop garden which now needs updating. Phew... some interesting bits to add.

Never thought, a single picture could tell this whole story. Perhaps, I need not try...
This little bloomer is all of 2ft tall and it's flowering and fruiting... hands down for one of the world's SMALLEST banana!

The upright inflorescence has unveiled its first comb of yellow flowers.

no kidding

The Footstool Palm

2010-08-03T17:35:00.004+08:00

Botanical Name : Livistona rotundifolia
Malay : serdang

Has another common name The Fountain Palm. Not sure if it's seasonal but to see so many of them bearing long bunches of round, pea-sized, orangy fruits at this time of the year is enough to prompt me to take action to chart this plant. Honestly, I'm guilty of ignoring this one for a while.

It's a very common palm used for landscaping and to see them practically grown everywhere sort of makes one feel blase. This exotic, tropical palm is native to South-east Asian countries like Malaysia and Indonesia.

Used generally for mass landscaping due to its hardiness and overall easy care. The round, dark green, glossy, fan leaves are split nearly to the middle. However, when young the leaf splits are shallower and leaflets less divided.

round fan leaves with mid deep splits

The green berry like fruits mature and ripen to a deep orange which is stark contrast to the dark green leaves.

The trees provide shade and delicious morsels for bird life. Most noticed picking away from the inflorescence bunches are the hungry black crows.

A solitary, woody palm, this species looks attractive (singly or in groups) where ever they are planted.

precious pea

tinder dry for removal

Due to the height of the trees (20ft +), it's almost impossible to see any flowers!!! Hmmm..next season?

The Limestone Cycad (err... not a palm)

2010-08-03T02:23:00.006+08:00

Botanical Name : Cycas calcicola

Fabulous scientific name, easy to remember, think Coca Cola!
Beautiful looking, palm like tree quite similar to a cross between the Sago Palm (its top) and the Ponytail Palm (its lower trunk) except that its fronds are more upright.

Another thought that came to mind was that the upper part of the trunk has a pale powdery look not unlike the limestone seen in caves or parts of exposed hillsides throughout Malaysia.

This native of Northern Australia grows in a hot dry climate (loves the Malaysian climate too!) and thrives on limestone or sandstone, schist derived soils. Its fronds are dark green, pinnate with thin leaflets arranged flatly on the stem. There are some very small spines at the base of the petioles. But in my excitement to photograph the cone, I completely overlooked this point.

prehistoric

prized cone

My best find for the day was this fresh, huge, solitary, male cone which was 'birch' in colour, an elongated ovoid with small upward spines.

limestone effect

A remarkable, mid size plant for any garden or landscape or plant containers. If it ever gets to this size (OMG!), am sure, as owner, you would be as proud as punch!

The Chamalilo Cycad

2010-08-03T01:41:00.004+08:00

Botanical Name : Zamia vazquezii

Yay, finally matched this find to its proper name, thanks to the kind, learned folks at palmtalk.org.

A native of Northern Mexico, it's has a common name Chamalilo (Small Chamal or Dwarf)
The recently transplanted cycad fills the space, its new home, beside the Bottle Palm. It has small elongated , dark green leaves with small irregular edges. The leaves are paired symmetrically.

Actually, it looks very much like a fern! Unlike the fern, this one bears cones and the crown of leaves arising from the head of the cycad, it's no mistaking it for the former.

I can probably understand why it is often confused with Zamia fischerii - its difference not discernible to the untrained eyes i.e. longer leaves with serrated edges, more pairs of leaflets, often developing multiple stems when mature and minute prickles on petioles (need a magnifying glass!)

The leaves have a papery feel though less thick than the Cardboard Palm.

newly transplanted

young leaves in bronze

stems from the cycad

This plant will bear cones and the female cones when ripen exposes striking bright red seeds.

The Bottle Palm #2

2010-08-02T02:21:00.015+08:00

Botanical Name : Hyophorbe lagenicaulis

Further to previous posts, The Bottle Palm, this specimen certainly takes the cake!

Its interesting form is that it has a wind swept, reclining trunk which is rather unusual. Reminds one of the Leaning Tower of Pisa but more leaning. Fortunately, it's sited to receive the full sun and hence, not slanted towards the sunlight as earlier thought.

Gauging from its new shoot, it's certainly trying to 'correct' its path to maintain a decent balance for future survival.

making a U-turn

gravity defying

well rooted

Meanwhile, its freshly bloomed inflorescence with clusters of small white flowers has certainly attracted the attention of some small insects including a red dragon fly.

dragon fly point

young shoot

The future of this unique 'bottle trunk' located at The Secret Garden is going to be quite spectacular, a clear diversion from the way it was and I hope we get to see how nature takes its course, albeit in a long, long while yet.

The Hookers Fishtail Palm

2010-07-30T20:31:00.003+08:00

Botanical Name : Arenga hookeriana

Enchanting may not be a word commonly used for palms but this bewitching one is worth its description. A gentler, understory version of the Fishtail Palm. It is also known as the Hooker's Sugar Palm. This healthy looking lush clump thrives in well drained soil with warm filtered light.

sunlit

The wide, textured leaves held on slim petioles are shiny, even glossy with deep and shallow jagged edges around them. Very beautiful to look at and grown for its interesting foliage. This species has undivided leaves.

The inflorescence bears small scarlet+white flowers which culminate into small ovoid green fruits which mature on turning deep scarlet. These plants have yet to show any flowers nor fruits.

Loosely sheathed with light thin fibres around the base of petioles, they form a slightly thicker stem and altogether a prized clump.