Rhopalostylis sapida ‘Chatham Island’
nikau palm
Stiff, upright feather fronds are held by bulbous apple green leaf sheaths. Green ringed trunk. Clean, exotic appearance. Robust variety; southernmost palm.
 Height | 20–30ft |
|---|---|
 Width | 6–10ft |
 Tolerates | Coast, Cool Summers, Fog, Moist Soil, Salt, Wind |
 Water needs | Moderate – High |
Being from New Zealand, this palm appreciates consistent water, but won't tolerate soggy soil. Once it's established, be sure to water it when the top inch or two of the soil is dry. Usually this will mean watering deeply every five to seven days during the dry season. | |
 Hardy to | 25°F |
 Exposure | Full Shade – Part Shade |
 Plant traits | Foliage Feature, Ornamental Fruit, Palm, Rosette, Sculptural, Solitary, Tree, Tropical, Trunking |
 Indoor / outdoor | Outdoor |
 Drainage | In Ground: Cactus Mix, In Pots: Cactus Mix, Tolerates Heavy Soil, Tolerates Sandy Soil |
 Fertilizing | Palm Fertilizer |
 Origin | Chatham Island |
 California native | No |
 Sunset zones | 16, 17, 21–24 |
Growing Notes
Thrives in cool marine influence areas of coastal California, even through the drier areas of Southern California.
Palms are generally heavy feeders, so if you want them growing quickly and looking their best, they should be fertilized at least three times a year. Fertilizing at spring equinox, summer solstice and fall equinox will allow for a winter rest. Be sure to feed your palm with a fertilizer that contains micronutrients (especially including magnesium), especially if you see yellowing leaves or yellow spots on the leaves.
Will not grow in interior California as this palm is intolerant of dry heat.
Young plants appreciate shade and can be cooked quickly in full sun. Mature plants do well in full coastal sun.
Adaptable to various soils, but prefers well drained soil.
Special Interest
Since this palm has almost no petioles (leaf stems) and upswept leaves, its crown resembles a shaving brush, thus the second common name for this tree - the shaving brush palm. This also means that the crown is both very full and also narrow, fitting into surprisingly tight spots.
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The above information reflects the observations of Grubb and Nadler and our extended plant community. We always consider input from fellow horticulturists and welcome feedback from those with additional information on the culture of this plant.
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