Caryota mitis commonly called Fishtail palm originated in India and South-east Asia.
The leaves of the Fishtail palm are unique; they are shaped like the tails of fish, hence the name Fishtail palm.
Fishtail palm leaves are bipinnate, the leaf edges folding upwards to give a ruffled appearance.
No other palm has this kind of leaves.
Fishtail palm has a multi-stem grey trunk with light green leaves. Each stem has 8 to 10 bipinnate leaves that can grow up to 5 to 9 feet in width and approximately 15 to 20 feet in height.
Fishtail palm clusters freely. It grows well in the tropical and sub-tropical region.
Fishtail palm has adjusted well in Guyana, the Caribbean and Southern Florida and is a favourite for landscaping. It can be seen planted at the National Cultural Centre on Homestretch Avenue.
Plant Fishtail Palm in full sunlight in well-drained soil. It can be grown by seeds, but small plants are on sale at nurseries.
Fertilize with Miracle Gro All Purpose Plant Food once per month. It likes to be kept moist when young.
Until next week, Happy Gardening.
