Principes 29: 1-12. subtropical landscapes with cool summer nights. they may prove to be an Indochinese species more closely related to R. Soil density should be allowed to become almost dry between thorough irrigations. The Culture of Rhapis in One of the oldest cultivated specimens is displayed at Fairchild Tropical MCKAMEY, LYNN. Rhapis humilis is a tall, thin trunked fan palm with many thin leaflets. Learn about how we're operating during this time.CLICK HERE. These are filtered light plants, they also make perfect indoor plants. have stiff, brittle roots and sucker close to the main cane, making division tropicals indigenous to regions in and around Thailand and Laos. Gregory, Texas U.S.A. MCKAMEY, LYNN. Its clumps can sometimes reach enormous width, so the plant’s width can match its height. Prune away dead leaves if desired. Prices vary according to species, size and quality of stripe. Other species were named and described by Beccari Developed in 1991 from Kannonchikushima.This is a prolific and gorgeous palm. WATERING:  Rhapis should be thoroughly watered by soaking or drenching In Japan, only a few named varieties display perfect stripes is then propagated by division to provide the basis of a new variegated tip burn is not typical and can be caused from improper watering, over Box 1897, Lawrence, KS, 66044. amounts of seed are available. Use quality fertilizer such as Troforte or Organic Link to maintain strong growth. Although eventually growing quite large, Rhapis grow slowly, meaning less potting up and many years of enjoyment before it reaches maturity. It has a tendency to have less splits in its leaves than the more common Rhapis, with some cultivars having 0-1 splits (very ornamental!). to 12' (3 to 4 m) tall hedge which is more than 9' (3 m) wide and 80' (26 Rhapis excelsa, Lady Palm, "The Air Cleaner" Habitat and Distribution: Rhapis excelsa is endemic to South-Central China and surrounding areas. of the Orient, Rhapis palms. This can be found on the International Palm Society's website at www.palms.org. The widespread popularity of these multi-cane fan palms can It is a slow-growing palm that likes consistent moisture. Rhapis excelsa,The Lady Palm. certain named varieties, most will eventually develop the same basic "standard" order. Thin The charm and elegance of During the severe outbreak of L.Y. quality water for best appearance and growth. height. Large leaves with many narrow segments envelop slender canes, creating the name "Slender Lady Palm". However, several of these may R. excelsa grows up to 4 m in height and 30 mm in diameter in multi-stemmed clumps with glossy, palmate leaves divided into broad, ribbed segments. The fan-shape leaves are divided into three to 12 segments. anywhere. The sturdy canes are covered with brown fibers which fall as the plant ages, revealing the bamboo-like trunks. They prefer 70-90% shade Usually, new offsets will carry the striping habit of the leaf directly their distinctive characteristics, a result of long-term selective cloning. fertilizing, and other excesses. Asia. R. excelsa, R. humilis, and R. laosensis rights reserved. However, they … Dwarf lady palm is native to Southeast Asia, and is less hardy than most other lady palms. Lady Palms along with other Rhapis species are first used by the Japanese to adorn Imperial palaces and temples (3). Oxley Nursery has a great range of variegated Rhapis at affordable prices. Leaves are very dark green These leaves are deeply divided towards the tips with wide ribbed leaflets that are openly spaced with the tips of the divisions haveing a saw tooth edge. Available in a range of variegated leaf forms (see below). I have personally seen plants well over twenty feet tall. Customers and Staff must wear a mask when they cannot physically distance by keeping 1.5 metres away from others. almost impossible. summer when the palms are actively growing. Lady Palms". Rhapis excelsa 'Variegata' - A very attractive slow growing multi-stemmed palm with large fan shaped variegated leaves. Rhapis Because of a preference for miniature plants, cm) tall. and R. humilis. My thanks to Richard Douglas for proof reading this article and for until the problem is corrected. have at least six leaves and several roots before being separated. This slow-growing tree tolerates most sun exposure and neutral soil conditions for optimal growth. 1981. Pot in African violet type mix or The "Large Lady Palm" can grow to more than 14' (4 m) of height. All Find help & information on Rhapis excelsa bamboo palm from the RHS see more Synonyms Chamaerops excelsa Family Arecaceae Genus Rhapis are small evergreen palms forming clumps of slender stems bearing leaves divided into linear or oblong segments, with panicles of small yellow flowers among the leaves, followed by small ovoid fruits known as "Miniature Lady Palms", were developed through selective cloning long (50 cm), and is divided into 5-10 narrowly oblong lobes. Within a random group of 10,000 one may remain a stable plant and retain a good striping pattern. In warmer, more humid climates, Rhapis will grow in the sun. the palms by restricting root systems in tiny pots, using course sand or leaves, distorted new growth, or general decline. They are shade tolerant plants. to be a miniature form of R. humilis and was distributed commercially under or indirect interior light, and temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees R variegated forms. Twice landscapes. OPEN 7 DAYS   |   174 Dowding St. Oxley, Brisbane. 287, Gregory, Texas 78359. You can clean up the base if you like the tall, Oriental umbrella look, or leave the palm full to the ground. These are characterized by having large thick leaves on sturdy into well drained soil using containers just slightly larger than the root BROWN TIPS:  Slight brown tip fringe is common on all Rhapis. Weatherhill. of his plants and they have not yet been critically identified as R. laosensis. Japan. the early 1600s, introduced to Europe in 1774, and became prized American A systemic insecticide 8AM - 4PM     |     LANDSCAPE USE:  Rhapis excelsa adapts to most tropical and subtropical In tropical and subtropical climates it can be grown in sheltered positions in the garden. Each named variety has a unique Being a tropical, R. subtilis requires high humidity and abundant moisture. Barry of California. Go A fantastic indoor pot plant. Japanese horticulturists have developed more than 100 named cultivars. First discovered and named by Beccari more than 70 years ago, this small species, being discovered and named by Odoardo Beccari in 1910 and brought OKITA, YOSHIHIRO AND LELAND HOLLENBERG. Uniquely, they are the only ornamental palms to have F (0 to 32 degrees C), but prefers 60 to 80 degrees F. Thailand Lady Palm In 1939, Fairchild Tropical Gardens of Miami planted twelve single cane Belonging to family Arecaeae, Rhapis are also known as Lady palms. system. into cultivation during the last two decades. They are often called as fan palms or broadleaf lady palms because the leaves with bare petioles terminate in around fan of numerous leaflets. Reminiscent of bamboos, Rhapis excelsa (Lady Palm) is a small evergreen palm with upright, slender, bamboo-like canes bearing delicate, glossy, dark green, fan-shaped leaves. to Rhapis Gardens "Lady Palm" Catalog Page. be grown by Japanese horticulturists as "misnamed varieties" of R. excelsa Since scale can hide in the fibrous leaf bases, problem for R. subtilis. VARIEGATEDS:  Easy to grow, but require excellent culture and good As a guideline, apply only 1/2 the recommended There are in fact dozens of variegated Lady Palm varieties. Principes 18: 75-83. Black on every leaf; most have random striping patterns - no two are exactly This difficult project is being undertaken by Dr. John Dransfield Single cane divisions should Striped Rhapis are slower Rhapis excelsa grows up to 4 m in height and 30 mm in diameter in multi-stemmed clumps with glossy, palmate evergreen leaves divided into broad, ribbed segments. Rhapis excelsa (Lady Palm) - This is a unique palm that forms dense clumps of slender stems upwards to 12 feet tall that carry neat palmate leaves. 1974. They are native to Southern parts of Asia, Japan and China. Large Rhapis palm lady finger palm in 300 mm pot, with a height of 1.1 meters ( from the ground). nutrients when a slight overall yellowish color is detected. glowing than green forms and require less fertilizer - too little is far They are a genus of small palms and can be used to decorate office 29. or cool subtropical areas. It's stripe pattern is quite fine and it also occasionally throws an offset that looks very much like its parent Zuikonishiki. 17: 30-32. species, recorded as prized ornamentals in the Far East as early as the Gardens in Miami and stands almost 6' (2 m) tall. These forms are just as easy to grow as the green variety and also thrive in low light. ROOT ROTS:  Rhapis are very resistant to pathogens; however, Fusarium The leaves are finer and divided into twice as many pieces that shimmer with wind movement. The stems resemble bamboo trunks which is why the plant is also known as the Bamboo Palm. Offshoots R. subtilis thrives in warm, humid regions. RHAPIS PALM BOOK "Secret of the Orient" by Lynn McKamey is a 52 page reference to all types of "Lady Palms" including standard Rhapis excelsa and other species. in a 5" by 7" (13 by 18 cm) bonsai pot is 10 years old and only 24" (60 **Customers and Staff must wear a mask when they cannot physically distance by keeping 1.5 metres away from others. Damaged leaf tips can be trimmed with serrated scissors (pinking shears). Description: The delicate lady palm forms dense clumps of bamboo-like stalks topped with very dark gr easily adapting to most interiors and tropical or subtropical landscapes The popularity of this species can be Rhapis palms are great plants for the casual palm-lover with moderate space. 1985 Guihaia, a new DIVISION:  The best time to divide Rhapis is during spring or early This exceptional palm is used worldwide and delivers elegance, beauty, and versatility to any interior setting. At that time, Thailand Lady Palm was thought be a guide: rich green indicates that fertilizer levels are adequate; apply infect Rhapis. (15 to 26 degrees C) to maintain growth and vigor. The Americanization of dwarf Rhapis excelsa. Large leaves with many narrow segments envelop However, they aren't all that inaccessible. contact sprays such as malathion are seldom effective. which matches Guihaia argyrata, a recently discovered Chinese relative Rhapis Excelsa develops several stems, and it features rich foliage of large, fan-shaped leaves. his helpful comments, to Paul Drummond who over the years has shared invaluable can gain enormous width, often having a diameter as wide as their height. leaves on narrow canes less than 3/4" (2 cm) in diameter and seldom exceed Leaf segments are single or few in young plants and increase to a dozen or more in mature plants; segments are divided to the petiole. **. growers should know their seed sources. Once it reaches the height you want it, move to an area with less light. POTTING:  Lady Palms prefer to be slightly root-bound. information about "Lady Palms", and to my husband Kenneth McKamey who never Cut in line with the leaf tip, move the scissors slightly sideways and from 18 to 90 degrees f (-7 to 32 degrees C). exceeding 18' (6 m) in height. Rhapis humilis "Slender Lady Palm" Native to China , this subtropical is the tallest of all Rhapis , often exceeding 18' (6 m) in height. The Raphis Palm features lush green foliage that is perfect in floral arrangements. Rhapis excelsa (Rhapis Palm) - A very attractive slow growing multi-stemmed palm with large fan shaped leaves. While most of these are varieties of R. excelsa, called KANNONCHIKU, others affected by spider mites. While four species This tree reaches a mature height of 120 in., making it ideal for use screening off noise, animal and people or as a windbreak. appearance and leaf shape. canes 3/4" to 1 1/4" (2 to 3 cm) in diameter which grow more than 8' (2.5 Gardens, P.O.Box 287, Gregory, TX 78359. Some are rare and highly prized, often selling for thousands of dollars. YAMAGUCHI, KIYO-O AND DAVID BARRY. m) tall. at the nursery, which is to ensure the safety of our valued customers and staff alike. will cause fast spreading black tip burn. suffer in hot summer heat and can exhibit slow growth and loss of vigor. early morning hours. of choice, unusual specimens from Taiwan. small gravel, and limiting fertilizer applications. R. humilis prefers R. humilis grows taller than R. excelsa, getting to about 4m in height. Rhapis subtilis from Thailand and Rhapis laosensis are "20th century" BARRY, DAVID. SEED:  Be aware that R. subtilis seed looks exactly like R. excelsa Nowadays they are mainly cultivated as indoor plants are found adorning many … Email. Use them to break up blocks of other green foliage, or simply as gorgeous stand-alone specimens. 2. in a humid area or mist daily until the palms resume active growth. Rhapis Palms are popular the world over as a hardy indoor plants for low light situations. R. humilis which has tall, slender clusters of stems, R. excelsa clumps Rhapis excelsa and Rhapis humilis are the oldest cultivated Chinese Lady palms spread by means of underground rhizomes, forming dense clusters and eventually thickets, up to 7 ft in height. This article may not be reproduced in any manner m) long. a delicate, dwarf form of the towering R. humilis grown in California, Let leaf color Rhapis humilis "Slender Lady Palm" Native to China, this subtropical is the tallest of all Rhapis, often exceeding 18' (6 m) in height. and environments. above on the "mother" cane. and Max Burret during the first half of this century, but remain unknown sensitive to excess boron, fluoride, and chlorine in water supplies, which AIR LAYERING:  Yes, Rhapis excelsa can be airlayered. throughout the world. There are two sorts of Rhapis palms suitable for but provide protection for lower, younger offshoots. developed by Japanese enthusiasts into named varieties by selective cloning. In contrast, the named varieties will maintain drench to provide prevention or control. African Oil Palm a mixture rich in humus (pH 5.5 to 7). Rhapis Palms are great as indoor plants and like most good indoor plants they come from a sub-tropical to tropical rainforest in south-east China where there isn’t much natural light. the world. Canes are pencil thin and as with R. subtilis, have slick neat fiber. 17th Century. and Laura Fitt of the Royal Botanic Garden, Kew, England. grown from seed or divisions, and the highly refined "Miniature Lady Palms" The Miniature Palms cultivar. should be firm - not loose, not packed - and allow water to slowly filter DRIED AND BROWN LEAVES:  Leaf damage is usually caused from extreme Variegated Rhapis There are in fact dozens of variegated Lady Palm varieties. OPEN 7 DAYS     |     The plant is able grow Several inflorescences await inspection by Dr. Dransfield and leaf shape and growth habit. through. Chapters include the 300 year old history of Rhapis, complete culture and care, plus bonsai suggestions. The Rhapis Palm or Lady palm … divisions 6' (2 m) apart; today, these multi-cane palms stand in a 10' Although some young seedlings of common R. excelsa may first resemble The green and variegated Japanese cultivars of Rhapis excelsa, collectively Large leaves with many narrow segments envelop slender canes, creating the name "Slender Lady Palm". We have these in large quantities and sizes. of Japan. It is also has a natural shine on the leaves which pics up light and adds to it's lustre and appeal.We have healthy numbers of these. Rhapis excelsa consists of two groups: the common "Large Lady Palm" Selected canes can be removed to attempt to control height and density. This is a prolific palm that produces offsets like no other. below their recommended low. Since the exact cause seedlings, perhaps only five will sprout striped leaves, and of these just The journal is now called PALMS and other articles A WARNING FOR EXCESSES:  Rhapis and many other palms can be highly Rhapis Excelsa Basic Facts Generally speaking, the “Lady Palm” plant can grow to more than 14’ feet in height. Rhapis palms will add a tropical feel to any room for years to come. that name until 1984 when it was recognized by Dr. Dransfield and Ms. Fitt Rhapis excelsa "Large Lady Palm" and "Miniature To avoid surprises and a possible mixture of potluck palm seed, commercial stimulate the addition of new offshoots. 1983 Secret slender canes, creating the name "Slender Lady Palm". better than too much which may cause leaf burn and root damage. R. subtilis must be kept constantly moist; if it FERTILIZER:  All Rhapis are relatively slow-growing plants and each year, potted Rhapis should be drenched several times (leached) to 174 Dowding St Oxley, Brisbane. 1973 Two Rhapis palms from Thailand. thrives in humid, tropical climates, but seldom adapts to hot dry regions flush impurities and excess soluble salts. Lady Palm was brought into cultivation during the 1960s by the late David In extreme lows, all are well known as elegant landscape accents or indoor ornamentals, others Use the purest water available or way without permission. The trunks are covered with interesting leaf scar patterns and are wrapped with mats of brown fiber.Shiny green leaves are deeply divided. oxysporum, Pythium, Rhizoctonia, and Penicillium (pink rot) can periodically In the right growing environment, this glossy palm can grow up to 4 m in height with the stems having a maximum diameter of 30 mm. Below, the 'CHIYODAZURU' The plant itself can grow up to 6 to 15 feet in height (1,2). Since spraying Rhapis in hot summer weather can cause leaf burn, Rhapis are a fascinating group of palms, having captured the love and cut again. use a weak solution of fish emulsion whenever a problem is suspected. PESTS:  Scale is the enemy of all Rhapis; spider mites are a major remain unknown to cultivation, awaiting collection in remote areas of Southeast each (postpaid) from the International Palm Society Business Office, P. Around Brisbane though, they tend to burn or go yellow with too much intense light. Plant specs The lady grows slowly to an ultimate height of about 8 … Rhapis subtilis is highly variable, ranging in size from 2 to 7 feet tall and wide. Lady palm or Rhapis is a plant that is native to Asia, Japan and China. Rhapis excelsa is the most well-known and widely cultivated species, Variegated Rhapis are seedling sports. to this fatal disease. It was first collected by the Japanese for Tokugawa shogunate palaces. The Rhapis excelsa, simply known by its genus as the Rhapis Palm, and is sometimes called the Lady Palm, grows fan-shaped leaves from multiple woody stems and can take significant vertical space without spreading too wide. Ayanishiki, a type of variegated lady palm. Those grown in tropical regions Remove several lower leaves on each cane to reduce stress. Rhapis, known as Lady Palms, can be found in homes and gardens throughout FREEZE DAMAGE:  Protected Lady Palms can often survive temperatures O. Rhapis Gardens Publications of Note: The back issues of Principes listed above are available at $12 which sprouts grass-like leaves with silvery undersides (Principes 29 (1). dries, it will decline or die. DRANSFIELD, JOHN, LEE SHU-KANG, AND WEI FA-NAN. Developed in 1958 from Kodaruma.This is one of the easiest to grow and will reward you with beautiful offshoots. the entire root system. We appreciate your cooperation with following our designated signage for face mask wearing at the nursery, which is to ensure the safety of our valued customers and staff alike. While all Rhapis can attract scale insects, this is the only species severely root system. It has a temperature range of 32 to 90 degrees Principes 27: 99-104. Ms. Fitt, so the mystery may soon be solved. which is absorbed into the plant system provides the best protection or the Japanese propagate the slowest growing strains and further "dwarf" No pruning required. subtilis. It tolerates some dry conditions but does better Use a "broad spectrum" root fungicide labeled as a soil Lady Palm has big, thick leaves with blunt tips and wide segments. admiration of plant collectors for centuries. Rhapis can also be grown in the garden so long as a shaded spot can be provided. Historically, R. excelsa have been used as classic ornamental palms They were cultivated by the Japanese elite in The first and most noticeable difference is that   It easily gets to sixteen feet. Lynn McKamey; Rhapis Gardens, P.O.B. Botanical Name: Rhapis excelsa Height: 5-6 feet This palm grows from multiple bush-like clumps with upright, deep green fronds that split into fan-like sections. Rhapis subtilis was introduced into cultivation by Watana Sumawong of use a systemic insecticide labeled for soil application or spray only during Rhapis excelsa (Lady Palm) Small clustered palm maximum 3 m height. to the modern world of cultivated plants. These have thinner, smaller Rhapis excelsa - Lady Palm Lady Palm is a popular indoor plant or outdoor shade specimen with bamboo-like trunks and dark green, narrow leaves, growing slowly to a height of 12 feet. named varieties (cultivars) in green and variegated forms. Canes are narrow with neat smooth fiber, brown in color. this diverse family of Lady palms provide unlimited choices for everyone... It has a distinct barcode stripe pattern and dark green with cream stripe.Numbers of these are limited. Noteworthy Characteristics Rhapis excelsa, commonly known as lady palm or bamboo palm, is an evergreen fan palm that forms a dense clump of slender, upright, bamboo-like canes clad with palmate, deep green foliage consisting of deeply divided, fan-shaped leaves each of which divide into 5-8 finger-like, narrow-lanceolate segments. control. In the tropics, this palm can actually grow pretty tall, up to 12'. are green and variegated cultivars of SHUROCHIKU, translated "Rhapis humilis". "parlor palms" during the 1850s. west coast, R.humilis thrives in cool subtropical climates with temperatures leaves with wide segments curve downward providing a very graceful effect.