Family: Arecaceae
Author: (Sol. ex G.Forst.) H.Wendl. & Drude
Bibliography: O.C.E.de Kerchove de Denterghem, Palmiers: 255 (1878)
Year: 1878
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Rhopalostylis
Vegetable: False
Observations: N. & C. New Zealand, Chatham Is.
Description
The Nikau palm, scientifically known as Rhopalostylis sapida, is a distinctive and unique member of the Arecaceae family. This elegant palm is native to New Zealand, where it thrives in the northern and central regions, and on the Chatham Islands. Known for its graceful appearance, the Nikau palm holds a special place in the flora of New Zealand, being the only palm species indigenous to the country.
Characterized by its lush, feather-like fronds and long, slender trunk, the Nikau palm can reach impressive heights, contributing to its ornamental value. The trunk is ringed with smooth, closely spaced leaf scars that add to its aesthetic appeal. The fronds of the Nikau are dark green and arching, creating a canopy that provides ample shade and a tropical ambiance to gardens and landscapes.
The flowering period of the Nikau palm is particularly noteworthy. It produces striking clusters of small, pink to purplish flowers that emerge below the crownshaft. These blossoms are followed by bright red, berry-like fruit, which are not only visually appealing but also attract native birds, contributing to the biodiversity of the area.
In addition to its visual and ecological benefits, the Nikau palm has cultural significance. It is cherished in Maori culture, where it is often referenced in traditional stories and uses. The fibrous material from the fronds has historically been used for weaving and other practical applications.
The botanical history of the Nikau palm has been well documented, with notable references dating back to 1878. It was described in “Palmiers” by O.C.E. de Kerchove de Denterghem, a critical work in palm botany. The authorship by (Sol. ex G.Forst.) H. Wendl. & Drude reflects its extensive study and classification among botanists.
Thriving in coastal and lowland forests, the Nikau palm is well-adapted to its environment, preferring moist, well-drained soils and a mild, frost-free climate. It has become a popular choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of the tropics to cooler climates, thanks to its tolerance for slightly cooler temperatures compared to other palm species.
Overall, the Nikau palm stands out not only for its striking beauty and ecological role but also for its cultural importance and adaptability, making it a cherished symbol of New Zealand’s natural heritage.
Common Names
Deu: nikaupalme
Eng: feather-duster palm, nikau palm
En: Nikau Palm, Shaving Brush Palm, Feather-duster palm
De: Nikaupalme
: Nikau palm
Synonyms
- Areca banksii (A.Cunn. ex Kunth)
Distribution
- Chatham Is. (native)
- New Zealand North (native)
- New Zealand South (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Jan 22, 2022 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Dec 1, 1998 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 1, 1996 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Jun 5, 2022 by leptospermum scoparium (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 23, 2019 by Chaw Chen Song (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Apr 17, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Apr 17, 2018 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Fruit
Taken Nov 1, 1996 by Daniel Barthelemy (cc-by-nc)
Taken Nov 27, 2022 by K. Kienetz (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 12, 2019 by David Coulson (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 20, 2019 by Pierre Bonnet (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/8532149)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:669611-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Rhopalostylis sapida (Sol. ex G.Forst.) H.Wendl. & Drude)