| The leaves of the Chamaedorea
radicalis appear almost metallic in this light. This small palm from
the oak forests of the Sierra Madre Oriental in Mexico has proved to be
very robust at Southern Comfort - it has taken temperatures of -5°C
with no visible damage and is reputed to withstand even lower temperatures.
It is dioecious meaning that both sexes are required for seed to be set;
this one is a male (the females are no different in appearance) and its
flowers produce pollen only. It grows best in shade. Although we have had
seed we have not yet tested it for viability. Seed, sown fresh is reputed
to be very dependable. Those rushing off to buy a Chamaedorea radicalis
need to be warned that they can be expensive and difficult to find (they
are stocked by the Palm
House, one of our recommended nurseries). © Maciej Pomian-Srzednicki, 2012 24/02/2012 Telephone 01803 201813 |