Licuala peltata var. sumawongii, Sumawong's Fan Palm - 5 x seeds fresh seeds

commonly known as Sumawong's Fan Palm, is a variety of palm endemic to Peninsular Malaysia. This plant is particularly noted for its striking appearance, which makes it a favourite among plant enthusiasts and a popular choice for ornamental use in landscapes and indoors with adequate growing conditions.

This is a beautiful and highly desirable, full-leaved variety of Licuala peltata from the Malay Peninsula, sometimes mistakenly called Licuala elegans. It is a medium sized palm with usually only a short trunk and its crown can hold up to 15 huge, flat,undivided fan leaves up to 2 m (7 ft) across! "It won't grow where I live, it's too tropical," you may say, but you could be wrong. This species is much more tolerant of cold conditions than almost any other Licuala and will thrive in subtropical and tropical conditions and perhaps in sheltered locations in some warm temperate climates without frost , always out of the wind of course.

**View:**
- This palm is known for its beautiful, almost circular, pleated, fan-shaped fronds that give it a unique and attractive appearance. The leaves can be quite large and are typically a lush, deep green colour.
- It has a single slender stem that can grow several feet tall, although it is considered a slow grower and will take many years to reach its maximum height.

**Cultivation conditions:**
- **Light:** Prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can cause scorching of the leaves.
- **Water:** The palm requires regular irrigation to keep the soil moist. It is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.
- **Soil:** A well-drained soil mix that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged is ideal.
- **Temperature:** It thrives in warm, humid conditions typical of tropical climates. It is not frost tolerant and should be protected from cold temperatures.
- **Fertiliser:** Slow release or dilute liquid fertiliser can be used during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients.

**Spreading:**
- Propagation is usually by seed. However, germination of palm seeds can be a slow and careful process requiring warmth and consistent moisture.

**Pests and problems:**
- Common pests may include mites, scale mites and mealybugs. Regular inspection and prompt treatment with appropriate measures (such as horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps) can prevent serious infestations.
- Brown tips on leaves can be a sign of waterlogging, overwatering or lack of moisture.

**Use in landscaping:**
- Because of its ornamental leaves, it is often used as a focal point in garden designs. It can also be grown indoors in containers provided there is sufficient light and humidity, which can often be achieved by using a humidifier or by placing the plant on a tray of pebbles with water.

Germinating the seeds of exotic plants such as Licuala peltata var. sumawongii or the fan palm Sumawong can be a rewarding but challenging process as they often require specific conditions to trigger germination.

Here is a general guide to follow, but remember that patience is key as palm seed germination can sometimes take a long time, often several months or even longer.

**1. Get fresh seeds:**
Fresh seeds have a higher germination rate. Make sure you source your seeds from a reputable supplier to get the freshest seeds possible.

**2. Soak the seeds:**
Soak the seeds in warm water for 24 to 48 hours. This process can help soften the seed coat and can speed germination by ensuring the seed is fully hydrated.

**3. Prepare the Growing Medium:**
Use a well-draining seed-starting mix, which typically includes materials like peat, vermiculite, or perlite. The medium should retain moisture but also allow excess water to drain to prevent rot.

**4. Plant the Seeds:**
Plant the seeds in the growing medium at a depth of about twice the diameter of the seed. For many palm seeds, this means they will be just below the surface of the soil, as many are not very large.

**5. Keep warm and moist:**
Palm seeds often require heat to germinate. You can use a heat pad to maintain a consistent temperature, ideally between 80-90 degrees Fahrenheit (27-32 degrees Celsius). The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Covering the pot with plastic wrap or placing it in a plastic bag can help retain moisture.

**6. Provide light:**
While seeds do not require light to germinate, once they sprout, seedlings will need bright, indirect light.

**7. Be patient:**
The germination time of palm seeds can vary considerably. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months or even longer for the seeds to germinate. During this time you need to maintain the warm and moist conditions that the seeds need.

**8. Caring for seedlings:**
Once the seeds have germinated, they will need continuous care. Make sure they receive sufficient light and keep the soil moist. As they grow, the seedlings will eventually need to be transplanted into larger pots with a potting mix suitable for palms.