Northern Kentia palm, Alexander palm
Gronophyllum ramsayi

Family: Arecaceae

What it is like

A large single-stemmed palm. It grows 15-30 m tall. The trunk is 20-35 cm across. The leaves are strongly curved fronds. These are divided into many leaflets which taper to the end. They are directed inwards in a V shape. They are 30-90 cm long by 2-5 cm wide. The stalk is about 40-80 cm long. The flowers are separately male and female. They are 0.6 cm across and hang on long hanging flower stalks. These are 30-50 cm long and hang below the crown. The fruit are oblong and shiny red. They are 1.2-1.5 cm long by 0.7 cm wide. They have thin oily flesh and a single hard-shelled seed.

There are 14 (33?) Gronophyllum species.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows in open forest in deep sandy soil. It needs well-drained soil. Plants are sensitive to fertiliser. They are very cold sensitive. They suit the seasonally dry tropics.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The central growing tip is eaten raw or cooked.

The growing tip is popular and enjoyed.

Edible parts

Growing tip, cabbage, palm heart, starch, sap

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seed. The seed germinate over 6-12 months or longer. Seedlings transplant easily.

It is a slow growing palm.

Its other names

Local names

Paliwuni

Synonyms

Kentia ramsayi;