Livistona humilis - Tray 60

About the Livistona humilis - Tray 60

Livistona humilis is an evergreen fan palm that develops a single, slender trunk and an open crown of firm, deeply divided green leaves. In size Tray 60, this species is offered as a seedling for growing on.

Characteristics

Origin: This species is native to the northern part of Australia's Northern Territory, where it grows in habitats including open eucalyptus woodland on sandy soils.

Family: Livistona humilis belongs to Arecaceae, the palm family.

Position: Choose a warm, very bright position in a greenhouse or indoor growing space. The plants can be placed outdoors in a sheltered spot during sustained spells of warm weather.

Height: In the wild, this species often reaches only a few metres in height, although large specimens can reach approximately 7 to 10 metres. When grown in a pot, its eventual size also depends on root space and growing conditions.

Flowering period: Flowering is possible once plants are sufficiently developed and growing in suitable warm conditions. The seedlings offered are not yet mature enough to flower.

Flower colour: The small flowers are yellow and appear on long inflorescences that extend above the leaf crown.

Hardiness: This palm is unsuitable for remaining outdoors without protection throughout the year in the Netherlands. Overwinter the seedlings in warm, frost-free conditions and protect the root ball from prolonged cold.

Soil type: Use an airy, well-drained growing medium that also retains some moisture, such as potting compost mixed with perlite. Avoid heavy, compacted soil.

Care

Light: Provide plenty of light and initially protect newly potted seedlings from strong midday sun. When moving the plants to a sunnier position, acclimatise them gradually to more direct sunlight.

Water: Keep the root ball lightly moist and allow excess water to drain away completely. Check small tray root balls regularly for drying out. Reduce watering when growth slows, without allowing the root ball to dry out completely.

Fertiliser: During active growth, regularly apply a small amount of suitable fertiliser for young palms. Allow for any nutrients already present in the potting compost and follow the manufacturer's instructions for young plants. Reduce feeding when growth slows.

Pruning: Remove only leaves that have dried out completely. Retain healthy green foliage and avoid damaging the central growing point.

Repotting: Pot on the seedlings carefully when their roots need more space. Choose a sufficiently deep pot with drainage holes, keep the root ball as intact as possible and maintain the existing planting depth. Do not trim the roots.

Humidity: Avoid very dry air from indoor heating. Provide adequate ventilation in a greenhouse or growing space without exposing the seedlings to cold draughts.

Special features: The leaf stalks may bear sharp spines. Handle the plants carefully, including when potting them on. Mature plants can produce edible fruit; the seedlings offered do not yet bear fruit.