Meet Licuala grandis, the palm that looks like it belongs in a luxury hotel lobby or a tropical conservatory. With its perfectly pleated, glossy fan-shaped leaves, this plant is all about symmetry, texture, and quiet confidence.
This isn’t a jungle mess plant. This is architectural beauty.
Look & Personality
Leaves: Large, circular fan-shaped leaves with dramatic pleating and a glossy finish. Each leaf looks hand-folded.
Colour: Deep, rich green that reflects light beautifully.
Growth habit: Slow-growing, upright palm with a single trunk.
Size: Medium to large over time, but slow enough to enjoy indoors for years.
Overall vibe: Polished, tropical, and expensive-looking.
This is the plant equivalent of a tailored linen outfit.
Pet & Reptile Safety
Good news: Licuala grandis is pet and reptile safe.
This palm is non-toxic to cats, dogs, and reptiles, making it a rare statement plant that’s also family-friendly.
Care Guide
Licuala grandis is not difficult, but it is specific:
Light: Bright, indirect light. No harsh sun—direct sunlight will scorch leaves quickly.
Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, but never waterlogged. Allow the top layer to dry slightly between watering.
Humidity: Loves high humidity. Dry air = brown edges. Bathrooms or humid rooms are ideal.
Soil: Rich but well-draining mix with good airflow.
Temperature: Warm only. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
Airflow: Gentle airflow is good; strong drafts are not.
Troubleshooting
Brown leaf edges: Low humidity or inconsistent watering.
Yellowing leaves: Overwatering or poor drainage.
Splitting leaves: Normal with age—fans naturally split slightly as they mature.
Slow growth: Normal. This palm takes its time.
Fun Facts
Native to the rainforests of Vanuatu and nearby Pacific islands.
Often used in botanical gardens and luxury interiors due to its sculptural form.
Each new leaf emerges tightly folded before slowly unfurling—pure theatre.
One of the most symmetrical palms grown indoors.
Licuala grandis is not a background plant—it’s a statement of taste. If you can provide warmth, humidity, and gentle light, it will reward you with one of the most elegant foliage displays in the houseplant world.
Refined. Sculptural. Timeless.
Keep it humid, keep it warm, and keep it out of direct sun—and let it shine
