Bentinckia nicobarica
 
Common Names Nicobar Palm, Carossier Palm
 
Zones 10A–11
A rare and endangered palm endemic to the Nicobar Islands, Bentinckia nicobarica is a solitary species with a graceful, arching crown and a pale green crownshaft. It thrives in lowland rainforest and limestone soils, often growing alongside Areca catechu and Rhopaloblaste augusta. Its slender trunk and elegant form make it a desirable ornamental in tropical gardens, though its conservation status limits availability.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; moderate growth rate
Height: Up to 65 ft (20 m) in habitat
Trunk: Slender, smooth, gray; ~10 in diameter; prominently ringed
Leaves: Pinnate, arching fronds; leaflets evenly spaced, slightly arched
Petiole: Unarmed; long, yellow-green crownshaft with slight basal bulge
Inflorescence: Branched spikes with small cream flowers; borne beneath crownshaft
Fruit: Globular, black when ripe; ~1 cm diameter; single grooved seed
Ecology: Native to Great Nicobar, Katchal, Nancowry, and Car Nicobar Islands; grows in rainforest and limestone slopes2
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Watering: Regular; prefers moist, well-drained soil
Soil: Limestone-based loam; tolerates organic-rich substrates
Temperature: Ideal range 70–90°F (21–32°C); sensitive below 35°F
Humidity: High
Propagation: By seed; germination in 2–4 months
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold and drought; prefers sheltered, humid environments
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical gardens, conservation landscapes, and botanical collections. Pairs well with Pinanga manii, Licuala grandis, and Calamus spp.