Licuala ramsayi
 
Common Names Queensland Fan Palm, Australian Fan Palm, Chakoro
 
Zones 10a–11
 
A towering fan palm endemic to northeastern Queensland, Licuala ramsayi is the only
Licuala species native to Australia. It dominates swamp forests and riparian habitats, forming dense “fan palm forests” in the Daintree and Mission Beach regions. Its massive, circular leaves and slender trunk make it one of the most visually striking palms in cultivation.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; slow to moderate growth
Height: Typically 30–50 ft (9–15 m); can reach 52 ft (16 m) in ideal conditions
Trunk: Straight; slender; up to 8 in (20 cm) diameter; retains fibrous leaf bases
Leaves: Circular; pleated; up to 6.5 ft (2 m) wide; divided into 17–23 wedge-shaped segments with truncate tips
Petioles: Up to 6.5 ft (2 m) long; armed with recurved spines up to 5 mm
Inflorescence: Spidery; cream-colored flowers
Fruit: Red drupe; ~0.4 in (10 mm) diameter; eaten by cassowaries
Ecology: Found in swamp forest, mangroves, and rainforest margins from Cape York to Paluma Range
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Dappled shade to filtered sun
Watering: Regular; prefers moist, well-drained soil
Soil: Rich, loamy; tolerates seasonal flooding
Temperature: Prefers 75–88°F (24–31°C); cold hardy to ~30°F (–1°C)
Humidity: High; essential for healthy leaf development
Propagation: By seed; slow germination
Tolerance: Sensitive to drought and wind; unsuitable for exposed sites
 
Landscape Use Ideal for large tropical gardens, rainforest-themed plantings, and ecological restoration. Pairs well with Johannesteijsmannia altifrons, Licuala peltata, and Alocasia macrorrhizos.