Habitat

Adonidia merrillii, commonly known as the Manila palm or Christmas palm, is native to the Philippines, particularly the Palawan and Visayas regions. It grows naturally in coastal lowlands and limestone habitats, often in sandy or rocky soils, where it thrives in full sun and humid tropical climates. It has also become widely cultivated and naturalised across Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, and parts of Florida.

Description

Adonidia merrillii is a small to medium-sized solitary palm, usually reaching 5–10 m in height with a slender, smooth, grey trunk about 15–20 cm in diameter. The crown bears 8–10 pinnate leaves, each 1.2–2 m long, with numerous arching, lanceolate leaflets that create a graceful, feathery appearance. The crownshaft is green and about 1 m long, contrasting with the grey trunk. Inflorescences emerge below the crownshaft and are about 1 m long, bearing small cream-colored bisexual flowers. Fruits are ovoid, 2–2.5 cm in length, ripening from green to bright red, often in abundance during the Christmas season, which gives the palm its common name.

Cultivation

This palm requires full sun to partial shade and thrives in well-drained sandy or loamy soils with a pH ranging from slightly acidic to neutral. It should be watered regularly to maintain even soil moisture, though it tolerates short dry periods once established. It prefers daytime temperatures of 24–32°C and nighttime temperatures of 18–22°C, with high humidity for optimal growth. Fertilisation with a balanced, slow-release palm fertiliser every 3–4 months supports healthy foliage and fruit production. It is well-suited to tropical and subtropical landscapes and performs well in containers when young. Protection is needed from prolonged cold, as the species is not frost tolerant.

Specifications

Plant Size: propagated in the UK, plants are 40-70 cm high, excluding the pot

Plant Family: Arecaceae

Plant Passport: A Adonidia merrillii B 140084 C 14391 D GB

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