Spindle Palm

The Spindle Palm (Hyophorbe verschaffeltii) is a slow-growing palm from the Mascarene Islands. Its single trunk is widest near the middle and tapers toward a smooth green crownshaft, with arching feather-like fronds above; UF/IFAS reports a mature height of 20–25 feet. [University of Florida IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR303) and [Kew](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:667456-1) support the plant profile and accepted species name. ## Form and placement The swollen mid-trunk gives this palm its spindle-like outline. Long pinnate fronds form an open crown, and branched flower stalks below the crownshaft bear white or cream flowers. Its unusual trunk can be shown as a single specimen or combined with other palms where it has room to develop. It can also be grown indoors if adequate light and space are available. ## Site and climate In its native Mascarene habitat, the palm grows in well-drained sandy soils. UF/IFAS recommends full sun and irrigation during dry periods. The species is sensitive to freezing temperatures, and the extension profile notes susceptibility to lethal yellowing in areas where that disease occurs. ## Maintenance Keep the root zone draining freely and water during dry spells. Watch for signs of nutrient deficiency; UF/IFAS notes that potassium or magnesium supplementation may sometimes be needed. Avoid planting where lethal yellowing is known to occur, and protect the palm from freezing conditions.