Species

Howea belmoreana

Etymology

Howea: Named after Lord Howe Island where these palms are found.

Common Name(s)

kentia palm, howea

Authority

Howea belmoreana (C.Moore et F.Muell.) Becc.

Family

Arecaceae

Flora Category

Vascular - Exotic

Structural Class

Monocotyledonous Trees and Shrubs

Habitat

In New Zealand - the less commonly cultivated of the two Howea species (known as Kentia Palms in the Horticultural Trade). Usually found in old gardens or parks, as isolated trees. Most fruit is harvested by people before it matures.

Flowering

October - December

Fruiting

Year Round

Year Naturalised

2007

Origin

Lord Howe Island

Reason for Introduction

Ornamental

Life Cycle and Dispersal

Long-lived perennial tree. Reproduces exclusively by seed. Seed large, 30-50 mm long, somewhat fleshy, bright or dull red when ripe. Dispersed by gravity and possibly birds

Tolerances

Cold intolerant




References and further reading

Johnson, A. T. and Smith, H. A (1986). Plant Names Simplified: Their pronunciation, derivation and meaning. Landsman Bookshop Ltd: Buckenhill, UK.

This page last updated on 26 Jul 2014