Family: Arecaceae
Author: R.Br.
Bibliography: Prodr. 268. 1810
Year: 1810
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Livistona
Vegetable: False
Observations: N. Northern Territory
Description
The Cabbage Palm, scientifically known as Livistona humilis, is a distinctive species belonging to the Arecaceae family. First described in 1810 by the renowned botanist Robert Brown, this species has since captivated botanists and plant enthusiasts alike.
Livistona humilis is native to the northern regions of Australia’s Northern Territory. This environment provides the optimal conditions that support its growth, contributing to its unique physiological features. The Cabbage Palm thrives in well-drained soils, commonly found in open forests and woodlands. It is particularly adapted to the conditions of tropical and subtropical climates, making it a resilient and robust palm species.
One of the most notable characteristics of Livistona humilis is its appearance. This elegant palm boasts fan-shaped leaves that can grow quite large, contributing to its aesthetic appeal. The leaves are typically green, with a glossy texture, adding to the plant’s visual allure. The petioles, or leaf stems, often bear small spines, a common trait within its genus, providing it with an additional layer of protection in its natural habitat.
In its natural environment, the Cabbage Palm tends to stay relatively low to the ground, hence the term “humilis” in its scientific name, which means “low” or “ground-hugging.” Despite this, the palm can grow to a moderate height under the right conditions, providing a striking addition to the landscape.
Understanding the ecological role of Livistona humilis in its native habitat is crucial. This palm plays an essential part in the local ecosystem, providing food and shelter for various wildlife. The plant’s flowers and fruits serve as critical resources for insects and birds, promoting biodiversity in the regions it inhabits.
In cultivation, the Cabbage Palm is valued for its aesthetic appeal and adaptability. It’s often used in landscaping, particularly in areas seeking to evoke a tropical or subtropical theme. The plant’s hardiness and low maintenance requirements make it an excellent choice for gardeners and landscapers.
As a species with a long history of botanical interest, Livistona humilis continues to be a subject of studies that explore its ecological significance, adaptability, and potential uses in sustainable gardening practices.
In summary, the Cabbage Palm (Livistona humilis) stands out as a remarkable species within the palm family. Its unique attributes and ecological contributions make it a valuable plant both in its natural habitat and as a cultivated specimen in gardens and landscapes worldwide.
Common Names
Eng: cabbage palm, sand palm
En: Cabbage palm, Sand palm
Synonyms
- Saribus humilis ((R.Br.) Kuntze)
Distribution
- Northern Territory (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 8, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 10, 2011 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2733416)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:668038-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Livistona humilis R.Br.)