Description
Veitchia merrillii is a neat little palm that resembles a dwarf version of the royal palm (Roystonea regia) which it matches in beauty if not in size. It has a single slender gray stem that is smooth, sectioned by leaf scar rings and is swollen at the base. A short green crownshaft supports a neatly compact crown of about a dozen, plus or minus a few, pinnate (feather) leaves. These are arched and about 5 ft (1.5 m) long with leaflets that are about 2 ft (0.6 m) long and 2 in (5 cm) wide. Christmas palm grows to an overall height of about 16 ft (5 m).

From the point at which the crownshaft attaches to the trunk emerge 2 ft (0.6 m) long inflorescences (flower stalk) which support small grayish-green flowers. By autumn these have been replaced by green fruits 1 in (3 cm) long and half as wide. By late fall most of the green fruits are beginning to ripen and by late December are bright and brilliant red - like ornaments on a Christmas palm!

Location
Christmas palm is native to the Philippines. It is a popular landscaping item in the capital city, a fact which inspires another popular name, the Manila palm.

Culture
This palm is easy going in its requirements and will grow in most soils except those that are constantly soggy. Christmas palm is moderately salt tolerant.
Light: Prefers full sun but will take some shade.
Moisture: This palm appreciates regular waterings but will tolerate periods of drought if not prolonged.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 10 - 12
Propagation: Fresh seeds germinate quickly within 1 to 3 months.

Product specifications - Coming Soon!