Red Neck Palm

Chrysalidocarpus lastellianus, commonly sold under the synonym Dypsis lastelliana, is the taller red-crownshaft palm known as Redneck Palm. It has a solitary trunk and long, bright green, feather-shaped fronds; the crownshaft is covered in dense reddish-brown fibers. [Kew](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:77314637-1) recognizes the current name, while [Plantmark](https://www.plantmark.com.au/dypsis-lastelliana) describes the evergreen foliage and summer flowers. ## Form and scale Published cultivated-size guidance varies: Plantmark gives a mature range of 4–10 m for height and spread, while another species account notes that cultivated plants are usually below 15 m. Use the broader nursery range as a planning guide and leave more room where growing conditions are especially favorable. Its upright silhouette and colorful crownshaft work well as a focal palm. ## Growing conditions Plantmark recommends full sun or semi-shade and loam or sandy soil with good drainage. In its native Madagascar range, this palm grows in wet tropical forest, so consistent moisture and warm conditions help maintain healthy foliage. Do not assume a cold-hardiness zone from the tropical origin alone. ## Maintenance Remove only dead or damaged leaves and keep a clear space around the trunk as the crown expands. Avoid cutting the red crownshaft or green fronds for appearance; healthy leaves continue to support the palm’s growth.