Pronunciation: uh-RENG-uh pin-NAH-tuh Common Name: Sugar Palm
Arenga pinnata is an enormous, pinnate palm from the Philippines, Sumatra, Vietnam and Indosesia which has some decent cold tolerance far beyond that needed to survive in its native lands. Good palm for low-wind coastal areas where there is plenty of room. Best to plant near vehicular access since it is a relatively short-lived, monocapric species that will likely require a crane to remove once it dies. Well grown specimens are extremely ornamental and awe-inspiring.
Appearance and Biology
Habit: solitary
Height: 50 feet
Trunk: single, 1' thick and covered with fibrous matte and 1'+ long, thin but not very strong or sharp spines that radiate outward and upward
Spread: 15'-25'
Leaf description: pinnate, very long, upright-oriented, slightly plumose leaves with dark green, premorse, closely spaced leaflets about 2'-3' long; undersides silvery; leaf shape a wide 'V' in cross section (not flat); new leaves open a rust coloration
Petiole: 12"-18" and well rounded with flattish dorsal surface; nearly 2" in diameter
Reproduction: monoecious and monocarpic
Inflorescence: short stem but long arching branches, arising from bases of lower leaves first, and working way up to top of palm; palm dies after top-most infructescence matures; flowers dark purplish and hang like heavy, densely beaded ropes
Fruit: deep green to yellow as ripen; fruits 5-8cm and spherical; toxic oxalates
Seed: 3cm and spherical
Horticultural Characteristics
Minimum Temp: 28F
Drought Tolerance: poor
Dry Heat Tolerance: moderate
Wind Tolerance: poor
Salt Tolerance: poor
Growth Rate: moderate to fast with age
Soil Preference: moist and rich/ well draining, but somewhat tolerant of clay soils
Light Requirement: full sun
Human Hazards: toxic fruits; spines mildly dangerous- more to eyes than skin; leaves very heavy- careful below when pruning
Disease or Horticultural Problems: relatively short-lived; looks ratty in windy climates and even worse if low humidity winds
Indoor?: poor choice due to size, light requirements and rough, scratchy foliage
