Kentiopsis pyriformis

Kentiopsis pyriformis is a solitary, pinnate-leaved palm endemic to southeastern New Caledonia. Its arching crown, copper to purplish crownshaft, and long green leaflets make it a distinctive specimen for large tropical landscapes. ## Identification and habitat The New Caledonia Plants Red List uses the accepted name *Chambeyronia pyriformis* and lists *Kentiopsis pyriformis* as a synonym. The taxonomic revision by Pintaud and Hodel describes a subcanopy-to-emergent palm with 7–12 leaves and a trunk 10–18 m tall. The leaflets are leathery, green, and held in an open V or nearly one plane. In habitat, the species grows in wet forest on soils derived from ultramafic rock, from lowland sites to about 200 m elevation. It differs from *C. magnifica* in its moderately recurved leaves and purplish, waxed crownshaft. ## Landscape use Give the palm room to develop its tall trunk and spreading crown. Its scale suits a botanical collection or spacious tropical garden rather than a small courtyard. The regional assessment rated it Endangered in 2016; choose responsibly propagated plants and avoid collecting wild material. ## Maintenance Match siting and watering to a warm, humid palm-growing climate. Keep moisture available without leaving roots in stagnant water, and remove only dead or damaged fronds. Check with experienced local palm growers about winter protection and establishment conditions.