Carpentaria Palm

Carpentaria acuminata (H.Wendl. & Drude) Becc.

car-pen-TAIR-ee-ah  ah-cuum-ah-NATE-ah

Arecaceae

Explanation of name: The generic name commemorates P. de Carpentier, former Governor General of the Dutch East Indies (JON). (According to RI2, the name honors the Gulf of Carpentaria, this in turn named after the Governor General.) Acuminate is a descriptive term for drawn-out tapered leaf tips.

Natural range: Australia along streams (RI2, JON)

Recognition: One of many tall slender palms in Florida, Carpentaria has arching, comparatively short (6’), pinnate leaves with sharp-pointed leaflets having bluish coloration beneath, those nearest the middle of the leaf shorter than those at the ends.  This palm has narrow, smooth, gray trunks with the rings exceptionally far apart (typically about 8 inches). The monecious flowers are white, and the numerous small fruits are bright red.

Landscape uses: Tall, fast-growing, narrow. Often used in clumps and clusters. Attractive in front of tall buildings or flanking entrances. JON emphasizes need for well drained soil, supplemental water in times of drought, and protection from excessive sun when young. MEE makes similar points, noting that the water needs to be consistent with irrigated turf. The flowers are white and the red fruits are irritating. ELL gives 2-3 months for germination.