Chambeyronia macrocarpa
 
Common Names Flame Thrower Palm, Blushing Palm, Red Leaf Palm, Watermelon Palm
 
Zones 10A–11
A solitary, slow-growing palm endemic to the mid-elevation rainforests of New Caledonia, Chambeyronia macrocarpa is celebrated for its brilliant red emergent leaf, which flushes like a flame and fades over 7–10 days. Its broad, leathery leaflets and smooth green crownshaft give it a lush, tropical presence. This species is a must-have for collectors and designers seeking dramatic foliage in protected landscapes.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; slow to moderate growth
Height: 20–30 ft (6–9 m) in cultivation
Trunk: Smooth, gray-green; ringed with leaf scars; up to 10 in (25 cm) diameter
Crownshaft: Uniform green; swollen and glossy; 3–5 ft (1–1.5 m) tall
Leaves: Pinnate; 8–12 ft (2.4–3.6 m) long; leaflets wide, thick, and arranged in a flat plane; new leaves emerge bright red or bronze
Inflorescence: Dioecious; male and female flowers on separate plants; small, clustered, and inconspicuous
Fruit: Round; red when ripe; not edible
Ecology: Native to ultramafic soils at 2,000–3,000 ft (610–900 m); thrives in moist, shaded rainforest
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Filtered light to part sun; protect from harsh midday exposure
Watering: Regular; prefers consistently moist, well-drained soil
Soil: Rich organic mix; avoid alkaline or compacted soils
Temperature: Hardy to 25°F (–4°C); ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C)
Humidity: High; misting recommended in dry climates
Propagation: By seed; slow germination; seeds identifiable by pale fiber pattern
Tolerance: Sensitive to drought, cold, and poor drainage
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical gardens, collector landscapes, and luxury container displays. Pairs well with Clinostigma, Hydriastele, and Licuala species. Best used as a focal specimen in protected microclimates.