Howea forsteriana

English names: Kentia palm/Thatch palm

Latin name: Howea forsteriana

Family: Arecaceae/Palmate - Arecaceae

Origin: Lord Howe Island, Australia

This palm is endemic to Lord Howe Island (i.e., its natural range of occurrence is limited to this place). It grows relatively slowly over time, reaching a height of 10 metres, with a leaf span of 6 metres. The leaves grow up to 3 metres long. The species is considered endangered. It has been reproduced on Lord Howe Island from collections of its wild seeds, and specimens grown from them are exported all over the world as garden and potted plants. Trade in its seeds and seedlings is strictly regulated.