Dypsis dransfieldii

*Vonitra dransfieldii* is a rare palm of Madagascar’s Masoala Peninsula, where small clumps grow in coastal forest on low, white-sand sites. Its few slender stems, reddish-brown hairy leaf sheaths and unusually long flower stalks give it a distinctive, airy profile. Kew now accepts *Vonitra dransfieldii* and records *Dypsis dransfieldii* as its synonym. ## Garden Use Treat this as a specimen palm for a tropical or frost-free garden where its cluster and open crown can be appreciated. It is not a compact edging or screening plant: the several stems and foliage need space to develop, and the long inflorescence can extend well beyond the leaves. The [Palm Grower’s Guide](https://palmpedia.net/wiki/Vonitra_dransfieldii) details its clumping habit, coastal forest habitat and frost-free cultivation. ## Growing Conditions In habitat it grows in littoral forest on steep or level ground at very low elevations. Provide warmth, shelter from cold, and moisture suited to a tropical palm while keeping the planting site freely draining. The species is reported as extremely uncommon in cultivation, so use a reputable nursery-grown plant and avoid wild-collected material. ## Maintenance Preserve the natural clump rather than removing sound stems to force a single-trunk form. Keep the root area evenly tended during active growth and do not cut green leaves; remove dead foliage only when it releases cleanly. This palm is best reserved for climates without freezing weather.