Palmae/Arecaceae

Locally known as Philippine date palm, it is endemic to Batanes Islands where it grows in thickets or in open grasslands. It is sometimes planted in gardens and propagated by seeds.

Locally known as Philippine date palm, it is endemic to Batanes Islands where it grows in thickets or in open grasslands. It is sometimes planted in gardens and propagated by seeds.

Dwarf, solitary, erect palm to 2 m tall. Trunk is roughened with remnants of petiole bases, to 15 cm in diameter. Leaves terminal, crowded and arching, the petioles lined with long spines at the margins. Leaflets are stiff, straight, to 30 cm long, green and with sharp tip. Inflorescence up to 30 cm long, with small, creamy flowers. Fruits globose, to 1 cm in diameter, red when ripe.