Seychelles Stilt Palm (Phoenicophorium borsigianum)

Seychelles Stilt Palm

Phoenicophorium borsigianum

Elegant stilted fronds rise like tropical lace. Slow-growing palm; common name: Borsig's Palm.

Partial sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Bright indirect to partial direct sunlight; tolerates dappled shade in native tropical habitats
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Watering Water deeply when the top 15 cm of soil dries out; avoid standing water to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical temperatures; avoid exposure to temperatures below 15°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Pinnate fronds up to 3 m long, with fine, arching, bright green leaflets
  • Stem: Slender, smooth trunk stabilized by thick, woody stilt roots
  • Inflorescence: Pendulous, branched clusters of small, creamy-white fragrant flowers
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Care Guide

Watering

Maintain consistent soil moisture; increase frequency during hot, dry spells

Fertilization

Diluted balanced palm fertilizer every 4 weeks. Cease fertilization in autumn and winter when growth slows

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Remove brown, dead fronds at the base to maintain a tidy appearance
  • Trim damaged or overcrowded stilt roots only if they disrupt container space or landscape layout
  • Thin overgrown fronds to improve air circulation around the trunk
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats; no reported adverse effects

Humans: No known toxic compounds; safe for human handling and ingestion of non-plant material

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental specimen palm for tropical landscapes and large indoor atriums