Hedyscepe canterburyana, also known as the Lord Howe's Palm or "umbrella palm", is an iconic species and highly valued by both collectors and those looking for exotic and resistant palm trees for their garden. This palm stands out for its elegant appearance, its resistance and because it is one of the most species Customizable to temperate and subtropical climates.
Description and botanical characteristics
- Growth and natural habitat: It is a palm tree of very slow growth, which can reach Meters 10 at maturity. It grows wild in the mountain forests, cliffs, and exposed ridges of Lord Howe Island (Australia), at altitudes between 400 and 750 meters.
- Appearance: Its trunk is thin and elongated, crowned by a dense and prominent dark green canopy, with arched leaves and recurved fronds. These pinnate and resistant leaves are reminiscent of those of the genus howea, like H. belmoreana, although Hedyscepe canterburyana shows an even more robust and compact appearance.
- Fructification: egg-shaped fruits, dark red when ripe, reaching about 4 cm in length and clustered in dense spikes under the crown. Each fruit contains a single seed.
- Flowering: It is a unisexual species, which has flowers of both sexes on the same plant.
- Taxonomy: Belongs to the subtribe Rhopalostylidinae along with RhopalostylisIt differs from this genus mainly by having more than six stamens and a pattern of protandric flowering instead of protogynous.
Distribution, conservation and etymology
- Endemism: Es endemic to Lord Howe Island (Australia), and its extremely limited distribution makes it one of the clearest examples of threatened island flora.
- State of conservation: Considered in danger of extinction mainly due to the loss of habitatConservation efforts are a priority to maintain wild populations.
- Etymology: Name hedyscepe It derives from the Greek “hedys” (pleasant) and “skepe” (shadow), in allusion to its local function as a “shade palm” or “natural umbrella.”
- Synonymy: It has also been known as Kentia canterburyana y Veitchia canterburyana in ancient botanical records.
Climate and optimal growing conditions
- Original climate: Lord Howe presents a subtropical climate, with warm, rainy summers and humid, temperate winters. maximum temperatures They usually vary between 17 and 27°C and minimum temperatures between 12 and 22°C, with average humidity around 60-70% per year.
- Adaptability: Hedyscepe canterburyana adapts exceptionally well to temperate, subtropical or mild Mediterranean climates, and can even tolerate very light frosts once established.
- Difficulty in hot tropics: Although it is hardy, it is difficult to grow in tropical areas where there are no nighttime drops in temperature.
Caring for Hedyscepe canterburyana
- Location: Prefers the semi-shadow It thrives in good light, tolerating long periods of indoor cultivation if provided with intense natural light. Outdoors, it can thrive under the partial shade of other trees.
- Soil or substrate: It is not excessively demanding, but it develops better in soils rich in organic matter, well-drained and slightly acidic. A specific substrate for palm trees, similar to that of copernicia, it is ideal.
- Irrigation: It is advisable to keep the substrate moist, but never waterlogged. Water a few three times per week in summer and reduce to one or two in winter, depending on ambient humidity and drainage.
- Subscriber: Apply a palm tree fertilizer During spring and summer, following the recommended dosages. A diet rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and micronutrients will promote growth.
- Transplant season: Transplanting is best done in spring, minimizing root stress. Consulting specific palm transplant techniques will help ensure a successful transplant.
- Multiplication: By fresh seeds, although germination is slow and erratic; it can take between 5 and 18 months. The seeds should be kept at around 20°C. The fruit can take up to four years to mature.
- Rusticity: Tolerates down to occasional -3ºC once established, resistance comparable to Howea forsteriana (kentia), but it does not adapt well to pure tropical climates.
- Pot cultivation: Because of its slow growth, it can be kept in a container for many years before needing to be moved to the ground.
Ornamental value and uses in gardening
- Popularity: Although little known, its exotic beauty and compact size make it one of the most prized palm trees by gardening experts and collectors. You can also explore similar species such as the Augusta palm to complement your collection.
- Versatility: Ideal for coastal gardens, patios, botanical collections , as a houseplant if it receives enough light.
- Shade and decoration: Its dense and arched crown creates pleasant shaded spaces, being excellent for generating cool microclimates under its foliage.
- Ecological interest: Due to its rarity and threatened status, its cultivation contributes directly to the ex situ conservation of the species.
Hedyscepe canterburyana is a fascinating option for those looking for a palm tree slow growth, resistant and of great beauty. Its adaptability In a variety of environments, its rarity and ornamental value have made it one of the most valuable and coveted species among exotic plant lovers. With proper care and an appropriate environment, this palm tree can become the jewel of any green space, also helping to preserve it for future generations.