Himalayan Fishtail Palm - Caryota maxima (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Himalayan Fishtail Palm

Also known as: Chinese Fishtail Palm

The himalayan Fishtail Palm (*Caryota maxima*) is a fast-growing evergreen tropical tree named for its leaves that are shaped like a fish's tail fin. It can live from 40 to 100 years and blooms small, inconspicuous flowers, with male and female on the same tree. The plant produces a black drupe-like fruit that is toxic. It thrives in full sun or partial shade.

Scientific classification

Species

Himalayan Fishtail Palm (Caryota maxima)

Palms, bullanocks, and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree

Plant Type

Late spring, Summer

Bloom Time

2 mm to 3 mm

Flower Size

Yellow, Green

Flower Color

Evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Images of Himalayan Fishtail Palm

Distribution of Himalayan Fishtail Palm

Distribution Map

Himalayan Fishtail Palm, a tropical palm species, is indigenous to Southeast Asia and thrives in the region's warm and humid climates. It has also been adopted into cultivation in other tropical to subtropical areas worldwide, where it contributes to diverse landscaping aesthetics given its impressive stature and distinctive foliage.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Garden

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for Himalayan Fishtail Palm

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Himalayan Fishtail Palm thrives in consistently moist soil, preferring balanced moisture levels while being moderately drought-tolerant. Water every two weeks to prevent over-saturation. As an evergreen, himalayan Fishtail Palm needs careful watering during the growing season to support year-round foliage.

Fertilize: Himalayan Fishtail Palm requires regular fertilization with balanced or high-nitrogen formulas, applied quarterly. During winter, use lighter doses. A teaspoon per gallon of soil is recommended. Dilute fertilizers to prevent root burn and avoid over-fertilization to maintain health and vigor.

Pruning: Himalayan Fishtail Palm features distinctive fishtail-like fronds, thriving in tropical or subtropical climates. Prune in early spring by cutting close to the trunk to enhance growth, air circulation, and pest prevention, while preserving its vibrant appearance.

Propagation: Himalayan Fishtail Palm, native to the Himalayas, features unique fishtail-like leaves. Propagation is achieved through division, ensuring offshoots have developed root systems before separation. Careful handling during this process is crucial to prevent root damage and promote thriving new plants.

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