Red Latan Palm

Red latan palm is a solitary, fan-leaved palm native to Réunion in the Mascarene Islands. Its most distinctive color appears on young growth: new leaves and their stalks emerge red, then the leaf blades mature to green while the margins and petioles retain red tones. ## Form and Foliage The smooth trunk develops a swollen base and faint rings left by fallen leaves. Its large, hand-shaped fronds form a bold canopy, and small yellow flowers grow among the leaves. Male and female flowers occur on separate plants, so fruiting depends on having the appropriate pollinating partner nearby. The [Singapore National Parks Board profile](https://www.nparks.gov.sg/florafaunaweb/flora/5/1/5100) identifies its solitary habit, young red foliage, and mature green leaves. [Kew’s Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:667783-1/general-information) accepts the species name and places its native range on Réunion. ## Growing Conditions Give this tropical palm full sun and moderate water. It tolerates moist as well as well-drained root zones, but avoid leaving it waterlogged. Plant it where the canopy has room to expand and where its changing leaf color can be seen; it can also be grown in a container while young. ## Maintenance Water consistently while establishing, then adjust irrigation to warmth and rainfall. Remove only dead or damaged fronds, using care around the stiff petioles. In frost-prone regions, choose a protected warm site or grow it in a container that can be sheltered during cold weather.