Actinokentia divaricata

Description

The habitat of A. divaricata is the low mountainous rain forest of southern and central mainland New Caledonia. Palm up to 8-9 m tall; trunk 5 to 9 cm in diameter, with roots visible at the base. A slender gray to light brown trunk with a diameter of no more than 3 inches. A relatively sparse yet attractive crown, and yellow green or brownish crownshaft, the most prominent feature of this plant is what can be a strikingly brilliant red new leaf, at times even more striking than the Chambeyronia. These palms are noteworthy for their gracefully compact and symmetrical structure, with recurved leaves like an elegant umbrella. They are outstanding in any location where they can be seen and appreciated "up close and personal" including an atrium or shopping mall. A slender feather palm to 7m, with a yellow crownshaft, and 4-6 leaves. Leaves 4-7 spread and arching of 1.20 to 1, 50 m; young leaves emerging from the dark red scabbard, sheath 42-65 cm long, bright green or light gray outside, with a long petiole of 60 - 85 cm. Phenology (flower): 2-3 erect inflorescences hardly glabrescent. Fruit: Fruit ellipsoid 2-3 x 0.8 - 1 to 4 cm, red to dark purple when ripe. The new leaf has intense colouration which is not commonly found in palms, either in shade or sun demanding species. The ecological value of such a phenomena is little studied but it is suggested that it is a mechanism to repel leaf-chewing insects. Editing by edric. These palms are quite adaptible, with qualifications. In general, the more their garden resembles their rainforest habitat in New Caledonia, the faster they will grow. In the tropics they are considered to be moderately fast growers. In warm temperate Mediterranean climates, like Southern California, they are much slower, but will grow well. The more humidity in their home the better. For example, observers in Thousand Oaks, California, which is relatively isolated from the sea, report that this species will produce about a leaf every two years. In areas closer to the ocean's influence, such as La Habra, Calfornia, they are much faster, producing two, three, or more leaves every year. As with all rain forest species, these palms like a moist, humus-heavy soil, and plenty of water. They will take a surprising amount of sun (more than half a day in La Habra, California) if given plenty of water, like a Chambeyronia. They do not, however, tolerate drying winds well.