The Pinanga Thai Mottled palm tree gets its name from the distinctive, “mottled” coloring of its bifid leaves, with light green spots and streaks sprinkled across a lime to dark green background. But don’t be surprised if you see new leaf growth in shades of purple, red, and pink.

A native of the mountain forests of Malaysia and South Thailand, it grows in clumps that can reach a diameter of 7 feet wide. The stems of this highly desirable palm are a dark, reddish-brown and very slim, measuring only a quarter inch thick. And because it only reaches a height of 4 feet tall, botanists have classified Pinanga Thai Mottled as a low-growing, understory, or dwarf palm.

Pinanga Thai Mottled Growing Tips*

In the wild, the Pinanga Thai Mottled palm tree typically grows near streams, beneath dense forest canopies. Therefore, this tropical palm prefers partially to fully shaded, high-humidity locations. And while it grows slowly, you’ll find it fairly easy to care for once established, both indoors and outside.

With that in mind, follow these general palm-tree growing tips to ensure your Pinanga Thai Mottled 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 Pinanga Thai Mottled palm tree.

*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