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Unconditional Satisfaction GuaranteeNo Shipping Fees Above 302 Months to Decide. Returns Simplified.Hyophorbe verschaffeltii, commonly known as the Spindle Palm, is an exceptionally attractive palm native to Rodrigues Island in the Mascarene Islands (Indian Ocean). It is highly prized for its elegant, symmetrical form and the distinct spindle-shaped trunk, which gives it its popular name.
It is widely used as a feature palm in tropical and subtropical gardens, and also makes a superb container specimen for conservatories or warm patios in cooler climates.
Trunk: The most striking feature is the bulging, spindle-shaped trunk, which is swollen in the middle and tapers at the base and top. As it matures, the trunk shows attractive grey ring scars from old leaf bases.
Foliage: Carries a graceful crown of feather-like, arching pinnate fronds, each up to 23 metres long, with slender, neatly arranged leaflets. New fronds often emerge with a soft bronze tint.
Flowers & Fruit: In tropical climates, it produces clusters of small cream-coloured flowers beneath the crownshaft, followed by oval fruits that turn red-orange when ripe. Indoors or in cooler conditions, flowering is unlikely.
Size: In tropical gardens it can reach 69 metres, but in pots or cooler climates it grows more slowly, typically staying 23 metres, making it manageable for smaller spaces.
Because of its tidy proportions and elegant structure, Hyophorbe verschaffeltii is one of the most admired palms for architectural planting.
Thrives in full sun to bright filtered light.
Young plants appreciate a little protection from harsh midday sun until established.
Indoors, place in the brightest possible location, ideally near a large south- or west-facing window.
A true tropical palm, it must be kept above 1012C, ideally in the 1830C range for best growth.
Not frost hardy needs to be grown in a conservatory or as a summer patio plant in temperate climates, moved indoors over winter.
Likes soil to be evenly moist but never soggy.
Water when the top 24 cm of compost feels dry, ensuring any excess can drain freely.
In winter, reduce watering but do not allow to dry out completely.
Prefers moderate to high humidity.
In centrally heated homes, occasional misting helps prevent leaf tip browning, or group with other plants to create a microclimate.
Use a free-draining, fertile compost, such as a quality palm or citrus mix with added grit or perlite to improve drainage.
Feed every 46 weeks in spring and summer with a balanced liquid fertiliser or a slow-release palm feed.
No feeding is needed in winter.
Very low maintenance.
Remove old, fully brown fronds at the base to keep the plant tidy.
Avoid cutting green fronds, as palms rely on them for photosynthesis.
Generally robust.
Indoors may occasionally be affected by scale insects or spider mites wipe leaves and treat with horticultural soap if needed.
Browning leaf tips often indicate low humidity or inconsistent watering.
Ideal for pots. Use a deep container with good drainage holes, and raise on pot feet to allow water to escape.
Repot every 34 years in spring, moving to a slightly larger pot and refreshing the compost.
