Description

Chambeyronia macrocarpa, commonly known as the Flame Thrower Palm or Red Leaf Palm, is a stunning tropical palm renowned for its vivid red new leaves and graceful, arching fronds. This palm is highly prized for its ornamental beauty and striking foliage, making it a standout feature in tropical and subtropical landscapes.

Flowers

The Flame Thrower Palm produces small, creamy-white to yellowish flowers that grow in large, branched inflorescences among the leaves. These flowers are followed by bright red to orange fruits, adding to the plant's decorative appeal.

Foliage

The leaves are pinnate and arching, with numerous narrow leaflets arranged along the length of the frond. Each frond can reach up to 2-3 meters in length. The most distinctive feature of this palm is its new foliage, which emerges in a brilliant red color before maturing to a deep green. This vibrant red new growth gives the palm its common name, Flame Thrower Palm.

Fruit

The fruit is a small, round drupe that turns from green to bright red or orange as it matures. The fruit adds additional ornamental value to the palm when it appears in clusters beneath the fronds.

Form and Size

The Flame Thrower Palm typically grows to a height of 6-10 meters with a spread of 3-4 meters. It has a single, smooth trunk that is topped with a crown of arching fronds. The trunk is grey and often marked by ringed leaf scars, contributing to its impressive appearance.

Growing Conditions

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, rich, organic soil. Thrives in moist, fertile conditions and can tolerate a range of soil types.
• Sunlight: Grows best in partial shade to full sun. Young plants benefit from some protection from direct, harsh sunlight.
• Water: Requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. It benefits from higher humidity levels.
• Climate: Suitable for tropical and subtropical climates. It prefers warm, humid conditions and is frost-sensitive.

Uses

• Landscaping: Ideal for use as a specimen tree, focal point, or in group plantings. It is suitable for large gardens, parks, and tropical-themed landscapes.
• Ornamental: The striking red new leaves and graceful fronds provide a dramatic and exotic look, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any garden or landscape.
• Containers: Can be grown in large containers for patios and poolside areas.

Maintenance

• Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Remove any dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance.
• Fertilizing: Benefits from regular applications of a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
• Pest and Disease: Generally pest-resistant but can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. Ensure good air circulation and avoid waterlogging to minimize disease risk.

Notes

The Flame Thrower Palm is a versatile and visually striking palm that adds a distinctive tropical flair to any garden or landscape. Its unique red new leaves and elegant form make it a favorite among palm enthusiasts and landscape designers.

Companion Plants

• Heliconia spp. (Heliconia)
• Alpinia zerumbet (Shell Ginger)
• Codiaeum variegatum (Croton)
• Strelitzia reginae (Bird of Paradise)

Common Name

Flame Thrower Palm, Red Leaf Palm

Botanical Name

Chambeyronia macrocarpa

Family

Arecaceae

Origin

Native to New Caledonia

Read more Read less