While we don’t know the exact region in South America where Lytocaryum Weddellianum (Wedding Palm) originated, this delicate palm tree grows naturally in the rainforests on the southeastern coast of Brazil. Unfortunately, as a result of land development, it has become endangered in the wild.
Lytocaryum Weddellianum (Wedding Palm) is a relatively small specimen, only reaching a height of 6 feet tall, making it a great potted houseplant. The trunk is fairly slender, around 2” in diameter. And its dark green, feather-like leaves can grow up to 35” long. A distant cousin of the Coconut Palm, Lytocaryum Weddellianum (Wedding Palm) produces small, coconut-like, edible fruit after flowering.
Lytocaryum Weddelwam (Wedding Palm) Growing Tips*
As a slow-growing, understory palm, the Wedding Palm prefers filtered sunlight, whether it remains potted indoors, or you decide to plant it outside. With that in mind, follow these general palm-tree growing tips to ensure your Wedding Palm has a long and healthy life.
- Situate the palm tree in low-traffic areas to avoid being brushed against too often. This weakens the leaves.
- Repot when the palm becomes completely pot-bound. This will slow down its growth if you want your palm tree to remain indoors for as long as possible. Consider transplanting tall-growing palms outside to allow them to reach their full height. Allocate up to 50 feet of space out from the trunk for the root system to spread.
- Plant in well-draining soil; soggy soil encourages fungus growth. For potted palm trees, an all-purpose potting soil, works well. Thoroughly loosen the soil where you intend to plant outdoor palm trees, removing weeds and rocks to ensure good drainage.
- For potted plants, use a fertilizer designed especially for palm trees. Have your soil tested to determine what nutrients, if any, it needs to ensure the best growing environment for your outdoor Lytocaryum Weddellianum (Wedding Palm).
*These Growing Tips are general in nature. Environments and conditions vary. For specific advice on your growing environment, talk to one of our specialists at a Ko’olau Farmers near you.
Palms
