Howea forsteriana
Common name
Kentia palm
Family
Arecaceae
Flora category
Vascular – Exotic
Structural class
Trees & Shrubs - Monocotyledons
Conservation status
Not applicable
Habitat
The more commonly cultivated of the two Howea species in New Zealand (where it is usually known as Kentia Palm). Mostly found in old gardens and parks. Very slow growing. Most fruit is harvested by people before it matures.
Flowering
October–December
Fruiting
Year Round
Life cycle
Long-lived perennial tree. Reproduces exclusively by seed. Seeds large, 20–40 mm long, somewhat fleshy, bright or dull red when ripe. Dispersed by gravity and possibly birds.
Year naturalised
2003
Origin
Lord Howe Island
Reason for introduction
Ornamental.
Tolerances
Cold intolerant
Etymology
howea: Named after Lord Howe Island where these palms are found.
References and further reading
Johnson AT, Smith HA. 1986. Plant Names Simplified: Their pronunciation, derivation and meaning. Landsman Bookshop Ltd, Buckenhill, UK.