Heterospathe cagayanensis
 
Common Names Cagayan Sagisi Palm
 
Zones 10B–11
 
A trunkless, tillering palm native to the coastal rainforests of northern Luzon, Philippines, Heterospathe cagayanensis is prized for its arching, finely pinnate leaves and purple petioles. Though extremely rare in cultivation, it thrives in warm, humid climates with filtered light. Its saxophone-style root heel and clustering habit make it a standout for tropical understory gardens and collectors of Philippine endemics.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Trunkless; tillering; clustering
Height: Typically 6–10 ft (1.8–3 m)
Trunk: Absent or subterranean; forms a heel above soil level
Leaves: Pinnate; ascending to arching; leaflets narrow and finely divided; petioles purple
Inflorescence: Hidden among leaves; small white flowers
Fruit: Small; purple when ripe
Ecology: Endemic to coastal rainforest margins in northern Luzon; grows in shaded, humid conditions
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Filtered light to partial shade
Watering: Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture
Soil: Rich, well-drained; slightly acidic to neutral
Temperature: Hardy to ~35°F (1.5°C); frost-sensitive
Humidity: High
Propagation: By seed; slow germination
Tolerance: Not drought- or salt-tolerant; sensitive to dry wind
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical understory gardens, shade houses, and collectors of Philippine rainforest species. Pairs well with Licuala grandis, Pinanga maculata, and Zingiber zerumbet.