Mealy Bug Palm

Mealy bug palm is a solitary Madagascar palm named for the white, waxy scales that mark its leaf sheaths and stems. Its long, feather-like leaves rise in three ranks, giving a mature crown a distinctive layered outline. [Kew’s Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:665964-1) accepts *Chrysalidocarpus mananjarensis* and treats *Dypsis mananjarensis* as a synonym; the latter name remains widely used in palm references. ## Landscape Use This is a large palm for spacious tropical or warm subtropical gardens, conservatories, or collections. The species can reach 6–25 m in habitat, so allow substantial vertical clearance and room around its crown. ## Growing Conditions The species occurs in both moist and dry forest on Madagascar’s east coast. In cultivation, provide full sun or light shade and a well-drained site; steady moisture is useful during establishment, but the root zone should not remain waterlogged. Its characteristic white scales are part of the plant’s natural appearance, rather than a pest infestation. ## Seasonal Interest The palm’s upright trunk and three-ranked, arching fronds provide a strong architectural silhouette. Pale waxy scales are especially noticeable on new leaf sheaths and along the leaf stems. ## Maintenance Keep the root zone draining freely and remove only dead fronds. Avoid cutting the central growing point, which is essential to continued growth in a solitary palm.