The question is whether the flower spathes on Chrysalidocarpus saintlucei are known for being stubborn about opening to bear the internal spadix.  I seem to recall prior posts about others experiencing this phenomenon.   I expected the first spathe would be open by now based on how long since it emerged and now have a second coming out.  I am not in a rush but just curious if my recall is accurate or if I am confusing it with a different palm.

Tracy, I don’t remember the spathe being stubborn, but I know many times when the spadix emerges, it is so heavy the inflorescence snaps off and comes crashing down. I know of several instances where growers support or tie the inflorescence to prevent seed loss. 

Tim

1 hour ago, realarch said:

Tracy, I don’t remember the spathe being stubborn, but I know many times when the spadix emerges, it is so heavy the inflorescence snaps off and comes crashing down. I know of several instances where growers support or tie the inflorescence to prevent seed loss. 

Tim

Thanks for the insight Tim.  It does look large and likely heavy.  Given that there is only one retained leaf base below the more advanced spathe,  the spadix will probably outlast that leaf.  

Hi Tracy lucky you having your palm flower. My question is how has it taken in years before your one flowered did the first time. My one 23 years old and iam expecting it to flower any year now thanks 

4 hours ago, happypalms said:

Hi Tracy lucky you having your palm flower. My question is how has it taken in years before your one flowered did the first time. My one 23 years old and iam expecting it to flower any year now thanks 

This one was planted from a 1 gallon pot in late 2015 or 2016.  My other one was planted shortly after this one and also from a 1 gallon.  This one has a thicker trunk due to full sun for at least 1/2 day versus the shade grown one.  It will be interesting to see if the shaded one follows suit in flowering or is delayed due to less sun.

6 hours ago, Tracy said:

This one was planted from a 1 gallon pot in late 2015 or 2016.  My other one was planted shortly after this one and also from a 1 gallon.  This one has a thicker trunk due to full sun for at least 1/2 day versus the shade grown one.  It will be interesting to see if the shaded one follows suit in flowering or is delayed due to less sun.

Thanks for the information my one is close to 23 years old and still no flower. I guess I will have to wait a little bit longer for a flower.

We have liftoff Houston.  Something to keep the bees busy on the warmer days.