Geonoma undata

Geonoma undata is a palm native to tropical America, recorded by Kew as a tree of wet tropical habitats. Its form varies across a broad range and several recognized subspecies, so mature size and leaf shape depend on the local form and growing conditions. ### Form and placement This palm may grow with a solitary stem or in a small cluster, and its leaves may be undivided or irregularly divided into leaflets. The species is associated with tropical montane and cloud-forest habitats. Use it where there is room for a palm canopy and a consistently humid, frost-free setting; its natural history does not support a single garden-size estimate for every population. [Kew's taxon account](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:667287-1) summarizes its range and accepted subspecies, while [Palmpedia's species description](https://www.palmpedia.net/wiki/Geonoma_undata) documents the variation in height and leaf form. ### Growing conditions Grow in bright filtered light or partial shade, with warmth, humidity, and a rich, moisture-retentive but freely draining medium. A palm-growing reference describes cool, wet conditions and constant moisture for a high-elevation form; a separate [species cultivation guide](https://projectpalm.net/species/geonoma-undata-subsp-undata) recommends shade and moist, rich, well-drained soil. These are habitat- and form-dependent observations, so adjust placement to the plant's provenance and local climate. ## Maintenance Keep the root zone evenly moist during active growth without leaving the plant in stagnant water. In dry indoor air, raise humidity and check the growing medium more often. Apply a palm fertilizer during the growing season according to its label, and allow space for leaves to expand without crowding.