Chrysalidocarpus hovomantsina (Dypsis hovomantsina)

1. Introduction

Habitat and Distribution

Dypsis hovomantsina is a palm species native to Madagascar, specifically found in the low altitude forests (0-500m) in the Maroansetra valley, province of Toamasina, on the east coast of Madagascar. This palm grows near streams in valley bottoms or near ridge crests, preferring humid tropical rainforest environments.

Taxonomic Classification

Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Tracheophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Arecales
Family: Arecaceae
Genus: Dypsis
Species: D. hovomantsina

Synonyms

The palm was formerly classified as Chrysalidocarpus hovomantsina before being reclassified to the Dypsis genus. The scientific name was updated in a taxonomic revision by botanists J. Dransfield and H. Beentje in 1995.

Common Names

• Hovomantsina Palm
• Mantsina
• Stinking Palm (referring to the smelly palm heart)

Global Distribution

This palm is extremely rare, both in its native habitat and in cultivation. In the wild, it's critically endangered, known only from two sites in Madagascar, both under threat from agriculture. In cultivation, it's found in specialized collections in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in Hawaii, and to a lesser extent in Florida and California. Its expansion worldwide has been limited due to its rarity and specific growing requirements.

2. Biology and Physiology

Morphology

Trunk

The Dypsis hovomantsina develops a solitary (non-clustering) trunk that can reach 6-15 meters in height and 20-30 cm in diameter. The trunk is pale to reddish-brown at the base, becoming more gray-green toward the top. The internodes (spaces between leaf scars) are 10-35 cm long, and the nodal scars are approximately 1-1.5 cm wide and pale brown in color.

Crownshaft

One of the most distinctive features of this palm is its well-developed crownshaft (the tubular structure formed by leaf sheaths at the top of the trunk), measuring 1-1.2 meters in length and about 25 cm in diameter. The crownshaft is primarily gray-green and covered in white wax, except for the distal portion which has a unique red-brown furry appearance. This characteristic two-toned crownshaft structure is unique among palms.

Leaves

The palm carries 6-7 spirally arranged leaves in the crown. The leaves are curved with an "untidy" appearance, as the pinnae (leaflets) are held in various directions, creating what botanists describe as a "plumose" or feathery look. The leaf sheaths are pale green to whitish, waxy and glabrous (smooth) at the base, with a distinctive dense soft pale reddish-brown persistent tomentum (fuzzy covering) at the top. The inner side of the sheath is peach colored. The petiole (leaf stalk) measures 10-56 cm in length.

Life Cycle

Like other palms in the Arecaceae family, Dypsis hovomantsina is a perennial flowering plant with a long lifespan. In cultivation, it's noted to be relatively slow growing, which is common for many palm species adapted to stable forest environments.

Specific Adaptations

This palm has adapted to the specific moist, humid conditions of Madagascar's eastern rainforests. It's considered a lowland forest species, growing in humid, sheltered environments. Its specific adaptations include:

1. The waxy coating on the crownshaft, which likely helps with water management and possibly deters insect pests
2. The distinctive furry red-brown section at the top of the crownshaft, which may provide protection for emerging leaves
3. Its preference for growing near water sources, indicating an adaptation to consistently moist conditions

3. Reproduction and Propagation

Seed Reproduction

Seed Morphology

While specific information about the seed morphology of Dypsis hovomantsina is limited, it likely produces oval fruits similar to other Dypsis species. Based on related species, the fruits would contain a single seed with a fibrous covering.

Seed Collection and Viability

Seeds should be collected when ripe and processed promptly. Viability in palm seeds generally decreases rapidly after harvesting, so fresh seeds have the highest germination rates.

Pre-germination Treatments

For many palms in the Dypsis genus, seeds benefit from soaking in warm water (64-78°F/18-25°C) for 24-48 hours prior to sowing. This helps soften the seed coat and stimulate germination.

Germination Techniques

Seeds should be planted in well-draining media (a mix of peat, perlite, and coarse sand) at a shallow depth of about 1/2 inch (1.3 cm). Germination environment should maintain:

• Consistent temperature of 75-85°F (24-29°C)
• High humidity (70-80%)
• Bright indirect light
• Even moisture without waterlogging

Germination Difficulty

Dypsis hovomantsina seeds are considered challenging to germinate, which contributes to the species' rarity in cultivation. Germination may be erratic and unpredictable.

Germination Time

While specific data for this species is limited, most Dypsis species take between 2-6 months for seeds to germinate, with some taking up to a year.

Seedling Care

Young seedlings require:

• Consistent humidity
• Protection from direct sunlight
• Even moisture
• Gentle fertilization once the first true leaves appear
• Protection from temperature extremes

Advanced Germination Techniques

For rare and difficult species like D. hovomantsina, specialized techniques may improve success:

• Using bottom heat (heating mats set to 80-85°F/27-29°C)
• Maintaining high humidity with propagation chambers or clear plastic covers
• Using fungicides to prevent damping off and other seedling diseases
• Careful monitoring and adjustment of growing conditions

4. Cultivation Requirements

Light Requirements

Dypsis hovomantsina prefers bright indirect light to partial shade, similar to its natural habitat in the forest understory. While it needs good light for healthy growth, direct sunlight exposure should be limited, especially during the hottest parts of the day to prevent leaf burn.

Species-specific Light Tolerance

• Young plants: Require protection from direct sunlight
• Established plants: Can tolerate some filtered sunlight but prefer bright indirect light
• Indoor cultivation: Place near east or west-facing windows with filtered light

Seasonal Light Variations

In regions with strong seasonal variations, protection from intense summer sun may be necessary, while maximizing light exposure during winter months.

Artificial Lighting

For indoor cultivation, supplemental lighting with full-spectrum grow lights can benefit these palms, especially during shorter winter days.

Temperature and Humidity Management

Optimal Temperature Ranges

Dypsis hovomantsina prefers warm, stable temperatures between:

• Daytime: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
• Nighttime: No lower than 60°F (16°C)
• Ideal average: Around 75°F (24°C)

Cold Tolerance Thresholds

This palm has very limited cold tolerance:

• Brief exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause damage
• Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 60°F (15°C) is not recommended
• The palm is not frost-hardy and requires protection in USDA zones below 10b

Humidity Requirements

Native to humid rainforests, this palm requires:

• High ambient humidity (60-80%)
• In drier indoor environments, regular misting or humidifiers may be necessary
• Grouping with other plants can create beneficial microclimate with higher humidity

Soil and Nutrition

Ideal Soil Composition

The palm thrives in rich, well-draining soil with:

• High organic matter content (30-40%)
• Good drainage capacity
• Mixture recommendation: equal parts of quality potting soil, fine bark, perlite or coarse sand
• pH range: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0-7.0)

Nutrient Requirements

Dypsis hovomantsina benefits from regular but moderate fertilization:

• Balanced palm-specific fertilizer (e.g., 8-2-12 or similar ratio with micronutrients)
• Application frequency: Every 2-3 months during growing season, reduced in winter
• Micronutrient needs: Particularly susceptible to manganese and magnesium deficiencies

Organic vs. Synthetic Fertilization

While both approaches can work:

• Organic options: Slow-release composts, worm castings, and organic palm fertilizers provide steady nutrition
• Synthetic options: Controlled-release formulations minimize the risk of fertilizer burn

Micronutrient Deficiencies

Common deficiencies to watch for:

• Magnesium deficiency: Yellowing along leaf margins
• Manganese deficiency: Frizzle top appearance or necrotic streaking
• Potassium deficiency: Spotting or necrosis on older leaves

Water Management

Irrigation Frequency

Watering should be guided by both environmental conditions and soil moisture levels:

• Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry slightly between waterings
• Typically water 2-3 times per week in summer, reducing to once weekly in winter
• Adjust based on temperature, humidity, and pot size

Drought Tolerance

Despite its tropical origin, established plants can tolerate brief dry periods but should not be allowed to completely dry out.

Water Quality Considerations

• Sensitive to chlorine and fluoride in tap water
• If using tap water, allow it to sit overnight before using
• Rainwater or distilled water is ideal for sensitive specimens

Drainage Requirements

Proper drainage is essential to prevent root rot:

• Use pots with ample drainage holes
• Consider elevating pots slightly to ensure complete drainage
• Avoid saucers that collect water, or empty them promptly after watering

5. Diseases and Pests

Common Problems in Growing

Environmental Stress

• Cold damage: Leads to brown/black spots on leaves, dieback of fronds
• Heat/sunburn: Causes yellowing, bleaching, or browning of leaves
• Low humidity: Results in brown leaf tips and margins
• Transplant shock: Temporary wilting or yellowing after repotting

Nutritional Disorders

• Nitrogen deficiency: Overall yellowing of older leaves
• Potassium deficiency: Spotting and necrosis of older leaves
• Magnesium deficiency: Yellow bands along leaf margins
• Micronutrient deficiencies: Various symptoms including stunted growth and leaf abnormalities

Identification of Diseases and Pests

Fungal Diseases

• Leaf spot diseases: Various fungi can cause circular to elongated spots on fronds
• Fusarium wilt: Causes progressive yellowing and death of fronds from oldest to youngest
• Pink rot/Gliocladium blight: Affects the base of fronds, causing pink/salmon discoloration

Bacterial Diseases

• Bacterial bud rot: Affects the growing point, causing foul odor and collapse of the newest fronds

Common Pests

• Spider mites: Tiny pests that cause stippling and webbing on fronds
• Scale insects: Armored or soft bodied insects that attach to stems and leaves
• Mealybugs: White, cottony pests that cluster in leaf axils and under leaves
• Palm aphids: Small sap-sucking insects that target new growth

Environmental and Chemical Protection Methods

Preventive Measures

• Maintain optimal growing conditions to reduce stress
• Ensure proper spacing for air circulation
• Clean tools between plants to prevent disease spread
• Quarantine new plants before introducing to collection

Biological Controls

• Beneficial insects: Ladybugs, lacewings, and predatory mites for pest control
• Beneficial nematodes for soil-dwelling pests
• Microbial inoculants to boost plant resistance

Chemical Controls

• Insecticidal soaps and horticultural oils for soft-bodied pests
• Systemic insecticides for persistent infestations
• Copper-based fungicides for fungal issues
• Integrated pest management approach combining multiple strategies

6. Indoor Palm Growing

Specific Care in Housing Conditions

Lighting

For indoor environments, position the palm:

• Near east or west-facing windows for filtered light
• Protected from direct midday sun
• Rotate periodically to ensure even growth
• Consider supplemental grow lights during winter months

Temperature Control

Indoor environments should maintain:

• Stable temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C)
• Protection from drafts, heating vents, and air conditioners
• Minimum nighttime temperature of 60°F (15°C)

Humidity Enhancement

Indoor air is typically drier than ideal for tropical palms:

• Use room humidifiers near the plant
• Place on humidity trays (filled with pebbles and water)
• Group with other plants to create a microclimate
• Regular misting of leaves (morning is best to allow drying)

Air Circulation

Good air movement helps prevent disease:

• Ensure adequate spacing between plants
• Use gentle fans if necessary
• Avoid stuffy, stagnant conditions

Repotting and Wintering

Repotting Guidelines

• Frequency: Every 2-3 years for younger plants, less often for mature specimens
• Best season: Spring or early summer when actively growing
• Pot size: Increase pot diameter by 2-4 inches (5-10 cm)
• Soil: Fresh palm-specific mix with good drainage
• Root care: Minimize root disturbance during transplanting

Winter Care

• Reduce watering frequency but maintain humidity
• Hold off on fertilization or reduce significantly
• Provide extra light if natural daylight is limited
• Maintain minimum temperature requirements
• Monitor for pests which often proliferate in winter conditions

7. Landscape and Outdoor Cultivation

Cold Climate Cultivation Strategies

Cold Hardiness

Dypsis hovomantsina is not cold-hardy and will suffer damage at temperatures below 50°F (10°C). It's suitable for permanent outdoor planting only in USDA Zones 10b-11.

Winter Protection

In marginally suitable climates, the following protective measures can help:

• Anti-transpirant sprays before cold weather
• Temporary structures with heat sources for extreme events
• Covering with frost cloth or blankets during brief cold spells
• Moving container specimens to protected locations

Hardiness Zone Recommendations

• Zone 11: Can be grown as a permanent landscape feature
• Zone 10b: Can be grown outdoors with occasional protection during cold events
• Zones 9-10a: Best as a seasonal outdoor plant, brought indoors for winter
• Zones below 9: Not recommended for outdoor cultivation except during warm summer months

Winter Protection Systems and Materials

For marginally suitable areas:

• Frost cloth or agricultural fabric offers several degrees of protection
• Christmas lights (old-style incandescent) can provide gentle warming
• Temporary greenhouse structures for valuable specimens
• Windbreaks to prevent cold damage from winter winds

Establishment and Maintenance in Landscapes

Planting Techniques for Success

• Timing: Plant during warm, humid periods (typically late spring through summer)
• Site preparation: Ensure good drainage and rich soil
• Planting depth: Set at same depth as in nursery container
• Initial care: Regular watering until established (typically 3-6 months)
• Mulching: Apply 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) of organic mulch, keeping away from trunk

Long-term Maintenance Schedules

• Fertilization: Apply palm-specific fertilizer 2-3 times annually
• Pruning: Remove only dead or damaged fronds
• Monitoring: Regular inspection for pests and diseases
• Soil management: Annual refreshing of mulch layer
• Protection: Seasonal protection as needed based on climate

8. Final Summary

Dypsis hovomantsina (formerly Chrysalidocarpus hovomantsina) is a rare and distinctive palm native to Madagascar, characterized by its solitary trunk, unique two-toned crownshaft with whitish-waxy and reddish-furry sections, and plumose leaves. Named after the local term "hovomantsina" meaning "stinking" in reference to its palm heart, it is critically endangered in the wild, known from only two sites under threat from agriculture.

This palm requires specific cultivation conditions including warm temperatures, high humidity, bright indirect light, and well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Its propagation is primarily through seeds, which are challenging to germinate. While slow-growing, it can eventually reach 6-15 meters in height, developing into an impressive specimen when provided with optimal care.

For conservation purposes and successful cultivation, attention to its specific needs is essential: protection from cold temperatures below 60°F (15°C), consistent moisture without waterlogging, high humidity, and regular but moderate fertilization. As with many rare species, preservation efforts both in situ and ex situ are crucial for ensuring this distinctive palm's survival for future generations.