Palms   Desmoncus orthacanthos

Common Names: Unknown Distribution & Habitat: Rainforest from Southern Mexico to South America Description: An unusual elliptical leaved climbing palm with very spiny stems and leaves. General: Looks very similar to the rattan palm of south-east Asia, but not related at all. The canes are however used for weaving baskets etc. Culture: Warm, sheltered and moist. Cold sensitive.

Figure 1. D. orthacanthos at Palmetum de Tenerife (Canary Islands).

Figure 2. D. orthacanthos leaf close-up

Figure 3. D. orthacanthos inflorescence

Figure 4. D. orthacanthos stem detail showing the spines.

Figure 5. D. orthacanthos

Contributed by:

Jose M. Zerolo (Figure 1,2,3,4&5)

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