Brain Seed Palm

Chrysalidocarpus bejofo, commonly called the Brain Seed Palm, is a large palm native to northeastern Madagascar. Its mature trunk is reported at roughly 15–25 m, beneath a broad crown of arching, pinnate leaves. The deeply grooved seeds resemble tiny brains, but the plant is often confused with the separate, undescribed palm Dypsis sp. 'Bejofa'. ## Landscape Use This is a canopy-scale specimen for spacious tropical landscapes, where its tall trunk and large crown can be appreciated without crowding buildings or paths. It is not a small indoor palm at maturity. The scientific identity matters in sourcing: Kew accepts Chrysalidocarpus bejofo and lists Dypsis bejofo as its synonym, while growers use Bejofa for a different palm. ## Growing Conditions The species is associated with moist lowland rainforest and steep slopes in northeastern Madagascar, around 200–400 m elevation. Provide warmth, humidity, and regular moisture in a fertile, well-drained soil; avoid prolonged drying. Seedlings benefit from filtered light while young, with stronger light suited to a large established plant in a warm climate. ## Seasonal Interest The palm is evergreen and valued for its imposing feather-leaf crown rather than a seasonal flower display. Its natural range is limited, so choose cultivated plants and avoid wild-collected seed. [Kew records its accepted taxonomy and wet-tropical range](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/77314598-1); [Palmpedia summarizes the Brain Seed Palm name, trunk scale, and habitat](https://www.palmpedia.net/wiki/Chrysalidocarpus_bejofo). ## Maintenance Keep young palms evenly moist and protect them from cold or drying winds. Remove fully dead fronds at their bases, leaving green leaves in place to support growth. Allow ample space for both the trunk and eventual canopy.