Palms

Latania lontaroides (Red Latan Palm)

Common Names: Red Latan Palm

Botanical Name: Latania lontaroides (Gaertn.) H.E.Moore & J.Dransf

Synonyms: Cleophora lontaroides Gaertn., Latania rubra Jacq.

Family: Arecaceae

Distribution: Native to Réunion.

Uses: This palm’s ornamental value lies in its vibrant colouring and ability to enhance the visual appeal of various outdoor settings.

Aesthetic Appeal: Its striking red to orange leaf stalks and robust fan-shaped leaves make it a visually appealing centerpiece in gardens and landscapes.
Tropical Theme Gardens: Perfect for tropical or subtropical-themed landscapes, adding a vibrant, exotic touch.
Specimen Plant: Often used as a standalone specimen plant due to its unique and dramatic appearance.
Container Planting: Suitable for large decorative pots, making it ideal for patios, terraces, and poolside decor.
Accent Plant: Used to accentuate entrances, pathways, or focal points in parks and gardens.
Drought-Resistant Landscaping: A good choice for xeriscaping, as it is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Commercial Spaces: Commonly planted in resorts, hotels, and commercial buildings for its elegance and low maintenance.
Public Parks: Adds diversity and a tropical flair to botanical gardens and urban parks.
Shade Provider: Offers moderate shade with its broad and dense canopy.

Category: Palms Tags: Arecaceae, Latania

Description

Latania lontaroides (Red Latan Palm)

Plant dioecious, reaching up to 12 m in height, growing slowly. Mature trunk slightly swollen at base, gray, smooth, up to 25 cm in diam., with rings marking fallen leaf scars. Fan-shaped, costa-palmate leaves, red with red petiole in early years, later turning green, 2-2.5 m in diam. Flower stalk arises among leaves, 1-2 m long. Fruit a smooth, globose drupe, 3.8-4.5 cm in diam., brown and glossy.

Cultivation: Grows in full sun but tolerates partial shade, preferring fertile, well-drained soil. It has moderate salt tolerance and is susceptible to lethal yellowing disease. Propagated by seed.

Etymology: The genus name “Latania” is believed to be derived from the vernacular name used in Mauritius. The species epithet “lontaroides” refers to its resemblance to the genus Lontarus, highlighting its similarity to another palm species.