The Flame Thrower palm is known for its bright red palm frond sticking up above its other green leaves. This palm is prized for its vibrant red leaves and tropical vibe. Thriving in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11, they’re known for rapid growth and a distinctly red appearance.
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Common Names:
Flame Thrower palm, Chambeyronia palm, Red Feather Palm, Red Flame Palm, Red Leaf Palm, Blushing Palm, Watermelon Palm.
Scientific Name:
Chambeyronia macrocarpa
Origin:
These palms originate from tropical climate of New Caledonia, a Pacific island off the East coast of Australia.
Appearance:
The Flame Thrower palm is decorated with fiery red leaves that spring up from the top of the plant. The red palm fronds slowly turn green only to be topped by another red sprout a few weeks later.
Growth Rate:
Remarkably fast-growing. This palm can add 2-3 feet to its height every year under ideal conditions.
Max Growth Height:
The Flame Thrower palm can reach heights of 30 feet.
Foliage Spread:
Maximum foliage spread of 10 to 15 feet.
Cold Hardiness and Hardiness Zone:
While they can endure brief dips to around 27°F (-1°C), prolonged exposure to colder weather can lead to palm damage or death. The Flame Thrower palm is best suited for USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11.
Soil Type:
Well-draining soil. Flame Thrower palms grow well in many soil types as long as they allow proper drainage.
Fruit and Flowering:
Mature Flame Thrower palms produce vivid red/orange fruits. The palm’s cream-colored flowers eventually produce small fruits that are edible but not recommended to eat.
Can it Grow Indoors:
Yes.
Light Requirements:
Partial shade to full sun for optimal growth.
Water Requirements:
Moderate watering. Keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged prevents root rot.
Maintenance Level:
Low-medium maintenance. These palms benefit from regular watering and occasional fertilization. This palm is considered self pruning, meaning it sheds dead leaves on it’s own.
Common Issues with Flame Thrower Palms
Common Diseases/Pests:
Flame Thrower palms aren’t prone to many diseases or pests. They can contract spider mites or mealybugs like any other palm tree out there.
Leaves Browning and Dying:
If the leaves appear brown and brittle, check the soil moisture. Dry soil could indicate under-watering.
Solution: Water your Flame Thrower palm thoroughly to saturate the soil.
Leaves Bleaching:
The palm may be experiencing sunburn if put in harsh direct sun as a young plant. Consider planting with partial shade to avoid sunburn.
Plant Care:
Maintain a consistent watering schedule and use high quality palm-specific fertilizer 2-3 times per year during the growing season for optimal growth.
Flame Thrower Palm Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I plant multiple Flame Thrower palms close together?
Yes, multiple palms can be planted relatively close together.
2. Does the Flamethrower palm produce edible fruit?
Yes, the fruit produced by the Flamethrower palm is edible though some may find the taste unpleasant compared to fruit from other palms like the date palm or Pindo palm. It’s not recommended to eat this palm’s fruit.
3. How can I protect my Flame Thrower palm from cold weather?
During cold snaps under 30 degrees these palms may be damaged or die. Planting near a house wall as a windbreak or using frost cloth can minimize this risk.
Whether indoors or in your garden, the Flame Thrower palm adds a fiery flare to your tropical landscape! With proper care, it can become the centerpiece of your garden.