Arenga engleri
 
Common Names Formosa Palm, Taiwan Sugar Palm, Dwarf Sugar Palm
 
Zones 9B–11
 
A compact, clustering palm native to Taiwan and the Ryukyu Islands, Arenga engleri is prized for its graceful, fishtail-shaped leaves and aromatic flowers. Its silvery leaf undersides and dense growth habit make it a standout understory specimen or tropical hedge. Exceptionally cold-tolerant for a tropical palm, it’s well-suited to subtropical gardens and shaded landscapes.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Clustering; slow to moderate growth
Height: 8–12 ft in cultivation; up to 15 ft in habitat
Trunk: Multiple stems; 4–6 in diameter; cloaked in black fibers
Leaves: Pinnate, triangular, fishtail-shaped; up to 8 ft long; olive green above, silvery beneath
Petiole: Unarmed; leaflets arranged in a single plane with V-shaped cross-section
Inflorescence: Fragrant yellow-orange flowers borne among leaves; monoecious
Fruit: Globular, red to deep purple; ~1 in diameter; contains 1–3 seeds
Ecology: Native to forested slopes; thrives in moist, well-drained soils with partial shade
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Partial to full shade; tolerates filtered sun
Watering: Regular; prefers moist but well-drained soil
Soil: Rich, humusy, slightly acidic; amend with organic matter
Temperature: Hardy to 20°F; ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C)
Humidity: Moderate to high
Propagation: By seed or division; germination in 6–12 weeks
Tolerance: Cold-tolerant; dislikes salt, drought, and high wind
 
Landscape Use Excellent for shaded gardens, privacy screens, or tropical understory plantings. Pairs well with Rhapis excelsa, Aspidistra elatior, and Alocasia odora.