Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu' - Paradise Palm - 2 x seeds fresh seeds

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Plant Description

Name: Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu'
Common Name: Mapu Fan Palm

Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu', commonly known as the Mapu Fan Palm, is a visually striking and unique variety of the Licuala mattanensis species. Native to the tropical rainforests of Papua New Guinea and nearby regions, this palm is prized for its distinctive appearance and compact growth habit, making it a favorite among tropical plant enthusiasts and collectors.

The Mapu Fan Palm typically grows to a height of 2-3 meters (6.5-10 feet), making it relatively compact compared to other large palms. It features a slender, single trunk covered with leaf scars. The palm’s most notable feature is its fan-shaped leaves, which are deeply divided into numerous segments, giving them a highly textured, ruffled appearance. These leaves can reach up to 1 meter (3 feet) in diameter and form a dense, dramatic crown at the top of the trunk. The palm produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are followed by small fruits, but the primary appeal of this palm is its striking foliage.

Cultivation of Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu'

Conditions:

1. Light: Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu' thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade. It prefers filtered sunlight, making it suitable for indoor cultivation near bright windows or in shaded outdoor areas. In hotter climates, it benefits from some protection from the harsh midday sun.
2. Temperature: This palm prefers warm, tropical to subtropical conditions with temperatures ranging from 18-30 °C (65-86 °F). It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F). It is suitable for USDA zones 10-11.
3. Soil: The Mapu Fan Palm prefers well-draining, rich soil. A mix of peat, perlite, and compost provides good drainage and aeration. It can adapt to a range of soil types as long as they are well-draining and slightly acidic to neutral in pH.
4. Water: Regular watering is important for Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu'. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top layer of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. The plant appreciates high humidity, so consider misting the leaves or placing a humidifier nearby, especially in dry indoor environments.

Planting and Care:

1. Planting: For indoor cultivation, use a pot with drainage holes and a well-draining potting mix. Choose a location with bright, indirect light. When planting outdoors, select a site with well-draining soil and some protection from harsh sunlight if necessary.
2. Fertilization: Feed Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu' with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer formulated for palms. Apply fertilizer every 6-8 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) to support healthy growth and maintain its vibrant foliage. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to nutrient imbalances.
3. Maintenance: Prune off any dead or damaged fronds to maintain the plant’s appearance and encourage new growth. The palm is relatively low-maintenance but should be monitored for pests such as spider mites and scale insects. Ensure good air circulation around the plant to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.

Growing from Seeds

1. Seed Preparation: Soak the seeds of Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu' in warm water for 24-48 hours to help soften the seed coat and improve germination rates. Scarify the seeds by lightly sanding them if necessary.
2. Sowing: Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix. Plant the seeds about 1-2 cm (0.5-0.8 inches) deep and cover lightly with soil.
3. Germination Conditions: Place the seed tray in a warm, humid environment with temperatures around 25-30 °C (77-86 °F). Keep the soil consistently moist and provide bright, indirect light. Germination can be slow and may take several weeks to a few months.
4. Care for Seedlings: Once seedlings emerge, provide them with bright, indirect light and gradually acclimate them to more direct light. Transplant seedlings into larger pots or directly into the garden when they are large enough to handle.

Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu' is a stunning palm that adds an exotic and sophisticated touch to any garden or indoor space. Its dramatic, ruffled foliage and compact size make it a prized addition for plant collectors and tropical garden enthusiasts.

Warning !!

The key to successful seed germination is planting the seed at the beginning of its growing season. This will give you the best results.
Try to mimic the actual conditions in which the plant is growing and its actual temperature where the plant is growing.

To germinate Licuala mattanensis 'Mapu' seeds, here are the general steps:

1. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat and encourage germination.

2. Fill a seed tray or pots with a well-draining seed compost or a mixture of peat moss and sand.

3. Sow the seeds on the surface of the compost and press them down gently.

4. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of compost or vermiculite to keep them moist and in the dark.

5. Place the tray or pots in a propagator or cover with a plastic bag and place in a warm place, around 27°C

6. Keep the compost moist but not waterlogged by misting or watering gently.

7. Germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the species and growing conditions.

8. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual pots and grow them on until they are big enough to plant out in the garden.

It's worth noting that not all seeds will germinate, and germination rates can vary widely depending on the quality of the seed and the growing conditions.