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About the Licuala cabalionii - S
Licuala cabalioniiLicuala cabalionii is a rare and elegant fan palm native to the islands of Vanuatu in the South West Pacific. The species is often described as a “split-leaf” version of Licuala grandis, because its leaves are deeply divided rather than forming a single undivided fan. Due to its unique foliage and graceful appearance, this palm is highly valued among collectors of tropical plants.
The palm develops a slender trunk and forms an attractive crown of large fan leaves. The slightly drooping leaf segments create a soft, pleated appearance that gives the palm a very ornamental and exotic character.
Characteristics
1. Trunk: develops a slender solitary trunk that can reach about 5 meters in height with a diameter of roughly 8 centimeters.
2. Leaves: large circular fan-shaped leaves that are deeply divided to the base into approximately 10 to 12 broad wedge-shaped segments.
3. Leaf structure: the central leaf segment is significantly wider than the lateral ones, and the segments hang slightly downward, giving the crown a soft pleated appearance.
4. Inflorescence: produces long hanging inflorescences that can reach up to about 1.8 meters in length and emerge among the leaves.
5. Fruits: after flowering, small round fruits develop that ripen to a yellow-orange color.
6. Origin and habitat: native to the islands of Vanua Lava, Pentecost, and Malekula in Vanuatu, where the palm grows in low-elevation coastal forests and rainforests, often on volcanic soils.
7. Etymology: the species is named after Pierre Cabalion, a French ethnobotanist who made important contributions to the study of the flora of Vanuatu.
Care
1. Light: grows best in bright filtered light or shade. Young plants are sensitive to strong direct sunlight and should be protected from intense midday sun.
2. Soil: prefers rich, organic, slightly acidic soil with good drainage.
3. Water: requires regular watering and the soil should remain consistently moist.
4. Humidity: high humidity is important for maintaining healthy foliage.
5. Temperature: extremely sensitive to cold and best suited to warm tropical climates.
6. Wind: the large leaf segments can easily tear in strong winds, so a sheltered location is recommended.
7. Growth: relatively slow growing and gradually forms a graceful crown of deeply divided leaves.
All specifications
English name
Cabalion Licuala Palm
Size
S
Location
Partial shade
Water requirements
Water regularly
Fertilization
Regular fertilization (± 3 times per year)
Evergreen
Yes
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Flowering
Moderate flowering
Fragrant
Non-fragrant
Edible
No
Fruit
Ornamental fruit (not edible)
Ideal growth temperature
Between 20°C / 25°C
Minimum temperature
Protect from 15°C
Preferred humidity
High humidity
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