Palms   Verschaffeltia splendida

Common Names: Seychelles Stilt Palm, Latanier Latte Distribution & Habitat: Slopes and gorges on the Seychelles Islands. Description: One of the most spectacular palms around, which has the big three that palm collectors look for; entire leaves, (at least in young plants), a spiny trunk, and to top it all off, well developed stilt roots. Its a medium sized palm, with leaves to about 2.5m long, and up to about 20m tall (altho it takes quite a while to get that size :) General: Verschaffeltia is a monotypic genus, which means that this species is the only member. Culture: Unfortunately rather tropical in its requirements, however it will grow in a sheltered position in the sub-tropics. Likes a position sheltered from the wind, (to keep the leaves intact), full sun or shade, and moist, but well drained. I've had a plant in Brisbane for several years growing in full sun, even temperatures in the low 40's (centigrade) having no effect on the leaves.

Figure 1. V. splendida

Figure 2. V. splendida - bottom part of the leaves.

Figure 3. A small group of V. splendida in Singapore Botanic Gardens, showing off the stilt roots.

Figure 4. Beautifull younger V. splendida , Utopia Palms & Cycads, Sunshine Coast.

Contributed by:	Peter Richardson (Figure 1&2)
	Mike Gray (Figure 3&4)

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