Licuala Mapu advice

[sashaeffer]

Finally took the plunge and bought a two leaf seedling. Knowing it's high humidity requirements and warmth it resides in our master bath where humidity is naturally higher, as well as low light(just a skylight). I have a Zebra palm in there that seems to do just fine. I made this little contraption to help hold in the humidity, yet allow for air circulation. Pot sits inside a high sided plant tray(for hanging baskets) with stone and RO water in the bottom. (I only use RO or rain water to water with)

Anyone here have any success with these fragile, but beautiful palms? secrets to your success? pics.. throwing in the Zebra palm as well just because they look so cool. Wish it would grow faster though.

Edited June 16, 2014 by sashaeffer

[tropicbreeze]

I have a couple of small ones planted out about 18 months ago. Also have a Caryota zebrina just near them. The C. zebrina is pretty slow but faster than the Mapu, and it's not as sensitive. But so far all is well. The most difficult times for the Mapu seem to be during the heat and when there's very dry air. Both those factors are more controllable indoors in a bathroom.

[sashaeffer]

Thanks for the reply. Would sure be nice to live in a climate where I could plant more tropical palms in the ground.

Scott

[Cindy Adair]

I now have 13 mapus (or I guess the real name is now Licuala mattanensis var. paucisecta) but none in pots. I did have 12 in my greenhouse in Virginia under orchid growing conditions, but only for a few months before planting them in the shady humid mountains of Puerto Rico.

Sounds like a good plan for your inside seedlings. I grew many things inside in Virginia (before I got a greenhouse and a tropical farm) that others said I couldn't, so go for it!

See http://www.palmtalk.org/forum/index.php?/topic/36553-licuala-mattanensis-mapu/#entry571890 for some more on this palm.

[sashaeffer]

Thanks for the reply and success story. I have quite a bit here to take care of...and more on the way but I wanted to at least try this one.

Scott

[rhapis]

This is what it should look like in about 10 years

[sashaeffer]

I sure hope so! will look good in the old folks home where I might be lol

[Cindy Adair]

This is what it should look like in about 10 years

map.jpg

wow!!!

[sashaeffer]

It crooked:( one minute looking just fine, next(it seemed) all withered up. May try again with one that is older and more established.

[Cindy Adair]

I'm so sorry for your loss!

[sashaeffer]

Me too. Don't know what could take it from what it was looking like all healthy and such to a withered mess in just a few hours.

Will try again though, with a older plant since I've heard seedlings can be tricky.