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About the Cyrtostachys renda - M
Cyrtostachys rendaCyrtostachys renda, commonly known as the lipstick palm or red sealing wax palm, is one of the most iconic and visually striking tropical palms in the world. It is renowned for its glossy, bright red crownshafts and leaf stalks, which contrast dramatically with its deep green foliage. This vivid colouring makes it a true showpiece in tropical gardens and conservatories.
The palm grows in clumps, producing multiple slender stems that form dense clusters. In its natural habitat, Cyrtostachys renda grows in swampy lowland forests, explaining its very specific requirements for moisture, warmth and humidity. When these conditions are met, it becomes an exceptionally ornamental and elegant palm.
Characteristics
1. Origin: native to lowland peat swamp forests of Thailand, Malaysia, Sumatra and Borneo.
2. Size: reaches approximately 12 to 16 metres in the wild; typically 2 to 6 metres in cultivation.
3. Growth habit: slow-growing and clustering, forming multiple slender stems.
4. Trunk and leaf stalks: strikingly bright red and glossy, especially on the crownshaft.
5. Leaves: pinnate, deep green fronds up to about 1.5 metres long.
6. Fruits: small, ovoid fruits that turn from green to bluish-black when ripe.
7. Special feature: an iconic palm and the official symbol of the Singapore Botanic Gardens.
Care
1. Light: prefers bright, indirect light or filtered sun; young plants should be protected from harsh direct sunlight.
2. Watering: requires constantly wet to very moist soil; highly tolerant of standing water and completely intolerant of drought.
3. Soil: thrives in rich, slightly acidic soil with excellent moisture retention.
4. Temperature: extremely cold-sensitive; temperatures below 10°C can be fatal. Optimal growth occurs between 24 and 29°C.
5. Humidity: requires very high humidity; misting or a humidifier is essential when grown indoors.
6. Maintenance: best suited for experienced growers or controlled environments such as greenhouses.
All specifications
English name
Lipstick Palm
Size
M
Location
Partial shade
Water requirements
Water generously
Fertilization
Moderate fertilization (± 2 times per year)
Evergreen
Yes
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Flowering
No flowering
Fragrant
Non-fragrant
Edible
No
Fruit
Ornamental fruit (not edible)
Ideal growth temperature
Between 25°C / 30°C
Minimum temperature
Protect from 10°C
Preferred humidity
High humidity
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