Barbel palm
Acanthophoenix rubra

Family: Arecaceae

What it is like

A shrub or small tree. It grows 5 m tall. There are prickles along the stem. The leaves are twice divided and there are 8-18 pairs of pinnae. There are up to 50 pairs of pinnules on each pinnae. The flowers are yellow. They are in large clusters at the ends of branches. The pods are flattened.

There is only one Acanthophoenix species. It is an at risk plant. It contains catecholases.

Where it is found

It grows in tropical and subtropical regions. It needs to be in a frost free place. It needs well drained soil. In Mauritius it grows above 500 m above sea level. In Reunion it grows between 500-1,500 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Australia, Mascarene Islands, Mauritius, Reunion

How it is used for food

It is cultivated in Mauritius for palm hearts.

Edible parts

Leaves, cabbage, palm heart, vegetable

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. Seed germinate readily. Germination takes 2-4 months. Seeds grow better if soaked before planting. Young plants are best in light shade.

The palm hearts turn brown quickly.

Its other names

Local names

Mascarene Islands cabbage palm, Palmiste palm, Red barbel palm

Synonyms

Acanthophora crinita (Bory) Wendl.; Acanthophora rubra Bory; Areca rubra Bory;