Licuala spinosa – Spiny Licuala Palm

Licuala spinosa, the hardy and ornamental Spiny Licuala Palm, is known for its clustering growth habit and beautifully segmented fan-like leaves. Native to Southeast Asia, this versatile and highly adaptable palm thrives in wetlands, coastal areas, and tropical gardens, making it perfect for landscaping, privacy screening, and container growing. With its tolerance for moisture, moderate drought, and salt exposure, it is an excellent low-maintenance choice for tropical enthusiasts.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Licuala spinosa
• Common Names: Spiny Licuala Palm, Mangrove Fan Palm, Clustered Fan Palm
• Family: Arecaceae
• Native Region: Southeast Asia, India, Thailand, Malaysia
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Mature Height: 3–6 meters (10–20 feet)
• Trunk: Clustering, slender, covered in small spines
• Leaves: Large, segmented, fan-like fronds, deep green
• Flowers: Small, creamy-white flowers in long inflorescences
• Fruit: Small, round, bright red when ripe
• Seed Count per kg: Approximately 1,200 seeds per kilogram
• Season: All Year

Growing Conditions:

• Sun Exposure: Partial shade to full sun
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, moist, loamy or sandy soil
• Watering Needs: Moderate to high; thrives in wet conditions but can tolerate short dry spells
• Temperature Tolerance: Not frost-hardy; thrives in tropical and subtropical climates
• Humidity: Prefers high humidity for optimal growth
• Salt Tolerance: High; ideal for coastal landscapes

Landscaping & Uses:

• Excellent for wetland and coastal gardens
• Great as a privacy screen or windbreak due to its dense clumping habit
• Perfect for tropical landscaping and indoor cultivation in large pots
• Low-maintenance and resilient, making it ideal for humid and rainy environments