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Mountain Vonitra Palm

​​​​​​​​Mountain Vonitra Palm

  • Common name: Vonitra, Vonitrambohitra, Mountain Vonitra Palm
  • Scientific name: Dypsis fibrosa
  • Family name: Arecaceae
  • Origin: Northwest and East Madagascar
  • Height: 10-30 ft
  • Width: 8-10 ft
  • Growth: Moderate
  • Zone: 9b-11
  • Light needs: Full sun to Part Sun
  • Salt tolerance: Moderate
  • Soil/pH/Texture: Moist, sandy, well-drained soil, slightly acidic (Ph 6.1-6.8)
  • Moisture: Moderate water needs – keep soil moist, but do not overwater
  • Drought tolerance: Moderate
  • Pests/Diseases: Spider mites and mealybugs may pose a minor issue.
  • Growing conditions: Does best in a sunny, humid area with well-drained soil. Make sure to plant it in a high spot so the soil doesn’t get waterlogged when it rains. As it liked humid conditions, and gets to be very large, it does best as an outdoor plant rather than an indoor plant. As long as it has adequate moisture it is a fairly low-maintenance plant.
  • Characteristics: Trunk is ridges, brown, and very fibrous, with the upperparts of the trunk being covered in long, thick fibers. Unlike other palms, the trunk of this species tends to be branched near the base, with the branches being upright and parallel and of similar size to each other. The crown consists of numerous pinnate leaves that are a deep vibrant red when they are first emerging, and which turn green as they mature.
  • Propagation: By seeds.
  • Wildlife: Fruit is eaten by wild pigs, and the leaves and branches provide shelter for birds.
  • Facts: Its leaves are used for thatching, and the strong fibers which grow from its trunk have a variety of uses. In Madagascar, it is found in moist upland forests and coastal forests.
  • Designer considerations: This plant is valued for its striking red leaves, which fade to green when they mature, as well as its unique branched trunk. Because of these interesting qualities, it makes a great specimen planting. Plant in a high spot near a garden or walkway. Surrounding it with smaller, tropical plants, especially flowering plants, creates a beautiful effect. 

Location

Ancient Garden

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