Carludovica palmata ( Panama Hat Palm ) is a tropical plant native to Central and South America. Panama Hat Palms are widely used as ornamental plants. They don’t develop a woody trunk like palms but instead grow large umbrella-like leaves. The young leaves, fruits, shoots, and roots are eaten in its native land. Its soft and durable fibres are used to weave Panama Hats which have become popular souvenirs. And the flexible stem is used to make cigar cases, welcome mats, and small bags.
Other common names include Toquilla Palm, Jipijapa Palm and Jungle Drum.
Growth
Carludovica palmata is a grassy, evergreen shrub that grows rapidly to 2 metres (7 feet). Unlike the name suggests it is not a palm. Fan-shaped leaves form in clusters. They provide the main ornamental feature of the plant. Panama Hat Palms grow well where daytime temperatures range between 24-32°C/ 75-90°F. They will cope with 12°C/53°F but not for long periods. Growing outdoors might only apply to regions such as Darwin and Cairns. This species can be invasive in tropical areas, though plants do not negatively impact the environment.
Carludovica palmata grows fast and will require regular watering during hot periods.
Panama Hat Palms enjoy consistently moist soil. The flowers are large, red and have long string-like pollen.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Cyclanthaceae
CLIMATE:
Sub-Tropical, Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
15 to 35°C / 60 to 95°F
SOIL TYPE:
Moist well-draining soil.
LOCATION:
Full Sun. Tolerates some shade.
HEIGHT:
Up to 2 metres (7 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 2 metres (7 feet)
pH:
5.0-6.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Evergreen
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium
POLLINATION:
Weevils and Bees.
MATURITY:
Up to 7 Years
GERMINATION RATES:
70-85%
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium
GERMINATION INFO:
2-3 weeks
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 310
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
No
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
FACTS ABOUT CARLUDOVICA PALMATA (Panama Hat Palm)
Leaf fibres are used for making hats, fans, baskets, and curtains. In some regions, the hats make up a significant portion of employment.
The roots and rhizomes can be added to salads and are said to taste like asparagus.
Panama Hat Palms are native to Costa Rica, Belize, Nicaragua, Honduras, Guatemala, Panama, El Salvador, Colombia, Ecuador, Brazil, and southern Mexico.
