Licuala grandis

Licuala grandis

Ruffled fan palm

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Taxonomy

Family Arecaceae · Genus Licuala

Common Names

Ruffled fan palmVanuatu fan palm

Context

nativeRegion

Vanuatu (Southwest Pacific Islands).

usdaZones

10-12

companionPlants

Calathea species, Monstera deliciosa, Anthurium, Philodendron

culturalUses

Primarily ornamental; prized for its striking foliage and used in tropical landscaping and as an indoor specimen.

Care

LightPrefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate partial shade. Avoid direct, harsh sunlight which can scorch leaves.

WateringKeep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Reduce watering slightly in winter.

SoilWell-draining, rich organic soil; a mix suited for palms with good drainage works well.

FertilizerFeed monthly during growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Do not fertilize in winter.

HumidityHigh humidity preferred; mist regularly or use a humidifier, especially in dry indoor air.

TemperatureWarm temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F) are ideal. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 14°C (57°F).

HabitTropical, slow-growing, solitary palm with large, round, pleated fan leaves.

Mature SizeUp to 2-3 meters (6-10 feet) tall and 2 meters (6 feet) wide in ideal conditions.

Growth RateSlow to moderate growth.

BloomingSmall, white to yellowish flowers borne on short stalks, occasionally followed by red fruit. Indoor blooming is rare.

DormancyNo true dormancy; growth slows in cooler or drier periods.

MethodsSeed

DifficultyModerate; seeds must be fresh and germination can take several months.

Best SeasonSpring to early summer.

PruningRemove dead or damaged leaves as needed; do not over-prune as the palm relies on its leaves.

RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when root-bound, in spring.

Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to spider mites, mealybugs, and scale; root rot if overwatered.

ToxicityGenerally considered non-toxic to humans and pets.

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