Licuala spinosaMangrove Fan Palm

The Licuala spinosa, commonly known as the Mangrove Fan Palm, is an elegant clumping palm native to Southeast Asia. This evergreen palm is characterised by its fan-shaped, glossy green leaves with deeply divided segments that create a unique and tropical appearance. Growing up to 3 to 5 metres tall and wide, it forms dense clusters, making it ideal for creating a natural screen, accent plant, or tropical garden feature.

Specifications

• Height3 to 5 metres
• Width3 to 5 metres
• Native toSoutheast Asia
• FoliageGlossy, fan-shaped green leaves; evergreen
• Growth rateModerate

Conditions

• SoilPrefers moist, well-drained soils; tolerates sandy and loamy types
• LightPartial shade to full sun
• WaterModerate to high; thrives in consistently moist or wet soils
• ClimateBest suited for tropical and subtropical regions

Additional Features

• FormClumping habit with multiple slender stems and a dense crown of fan-shaped leaves
• UsesIdeal for natural screens, borders, or as a feature plant in tropical landscapes
• SpacingPlant 2 to 3 metres apart for dense coverage or standalone displays
• Low MaintenanceRequires minimal pruning; remove dead leaves to maintain appearance
• Pest ResistanceGenerally pest-free; highly resilient
• Drought SensitivityRequires consistent moisture; benefits from regular watering in dry periods
• Salt ToleranceSuitable for coastal gardens and saline soils
• Wildlife AttractionProvides shelter and habitat for birds and small wildlife
• Seasonal AppealEvergreen foliage provides year-round greenery and structure
• VersatilityComplements tropical, contemporary, and coastal garden styles

The Mangrove Fan Palm is a versatile and lush palm, perfect for adding a tropical aesthetic, dense greenery, and low-maintenance beauty to gardens, especially in moist or water-adjacent environments.