Pritchardia hillebrandii – Hawaii Fan Palm Seeds

Description

Pritchardia hillebrandii is a solitary fan palm reaching 6-12 m (20-40 ft) in height, with a straight gray trunk 20-35 cm (8-14 in) in diameter. The leaves are large and nearly circular, up to 1.5 m (5 ft) wide, with stiff, deep green upper surfaces and pale undersides finely covered with short, silky hairs. The leaf blades are divided about halfway into narrow segments, giving the crown a neat, rounded appearance. Inflorescences are shorter than or equal to the leaves and produce shiny black fruits about 2.5 cm (1 in) in diameter.

This species is endemic to the island of Molokai in Hawaii, where it grows naturally on coastal dunes and dry lowland areas, especially along the western and southern coasts, in habitats exposed to wind and salt. It thrives in full sun and well-drained sandy soils, tolerating moderate drought once established and significant salt spray.