Lepidocaryum tenue
Lepidocaryum tenue · Arecaceae
The gardener's calendar
In autumn, ease off feeding and take the chance to clean up around lepidocaryum tenue and prepare for winter.
ID card
- Common name
- Fine fiber palm
- Family
- Arecaceae
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Adult size
- 8 to 12 m tall
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Tropical (12 °C minimum)
- Origin
- Amazonia (Brazil, Peru)
- Exposure
- Bright light, partial shade acceptable
Care
Watering
Keep the substrate moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly during the growth period, and reduce slightly in winter. Rainwater or distilled water is preferable. Ensure good drainage to prevent root suffocation.
Light exposure
Provide bright, indirect light, away from direct sunlight which can burn the foliage. This species tolerates partial shade well. Indoors, placing near an east or west-facing window is ideal.
Substrate and soil
Use a rich, well-draining, slightly acidic organic matter mix. A substrate composed of leaf mold, peat, and perlite works well. Ensure optimal drainage at the bottom of the pot.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer (or palm-specific) every 15 to 20 days during the growth phase (spring-summer). Reduce or stop in winter. Respect recommended dosages to prevent salt accumulation.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove only dead or damaged fronds by cutting at the base. Never prune the heart or terminal bud, as this would compromise growth. Regularly clean the leaves to optimize photosynthesis.
Pests and diseases
Watch for spider mites and mealybugs, particularly in dry air. Excess humidity can promote root rot or fungal diseases. Isolate affected plants and treat with appropriate solutions if necessary.
Did you know?
Lepidocaryum tenue is prized by Amazonian peoples for its fine fibers extracted from the leaf petioles, traditionally used in the manufacture of ropes and woven objects. Its name 'tenue' refers to the remarkable fineness of these fibers, making it a palm with deep cultural and ethnobotanical significance in the practices of western Amazonian communities.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring, once all risk of frost has gone. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: from April to June.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- Dwarf fan palmChamaerops humilis
- Chinese windmill palmTrachycarpus fortunei
- Dwarf palmettoSabal minor
- Mexican fan palmWashingtonia robusta
- Queen palmSyagrus romanzoffiana
- Areca PalmDypsis lutescens
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.