Description

Jubaeopsis caffra, commonly known as the Pondoland Palm, is one of the rarest and most remarkable palm species in the world. It is native to a small coastal area of South Africa and represents the only surviving member of an ancient palm lineage related to Jubaea chilensis (the Chilean Wine Palm).

This unique species is prized for its graceful pinnate leaves, sturdy trunk, and exceptional resistance to wind, salt, and drought. It grows slowly but lives for centuries, making it ideal for collectors and botanic enthusiasts who appreciate rare, prehistoric plants.

Supplied as 2 fresh, viable seeds, ethically sourced from cultivated parent plants to ensure high germination potential and genetic authenticity.

Germination

Seed Preparation:

• Use fresh, cleaned seeds.
• Remove any remaining fruit skin or pulp to prevent fungal contamination.
• Soak seeds in lukewarm water (28 – 30 °C / 82 – 86 °F) for 4 to 5 days, replacing the water daily.

Sowing Medium:
Use a loose, well‑draining mix – equal parts perlite, cocopeat, and fine sand or pine bark. The substrate must stay slightly moist but airy.

Depth and Conditions:

• Sow 1.5 – 2 cm (0.6 – 0.8 in) deep.
• Maintain a warm temperature of 28 – 32 °C (82 – 90 °F); gentle bottom heat helps.
• Keep humidity high – around 70 – 85 %; cover the tray to retain moisture.
• Provide bright, indirect light – avoid direct sunlight during early stages.

Germination Time:
Extremely slow; seeds may take 2 to 5 months to sprout under consistent warmth. Patience is essential for this rare species.

Transplanting:
Transplant seedlings carefully after the first leaf appears. Use deep pots to allow early taproot development and avoid root disturbance.

Care

Light:

• Seedlings prefer filtered light or semi‑shade.
• Mature palms enjoy full sun or partial shade and tolerate strong winds and salt spray in coastal locations.

Soil:
Prefers well‑draining, sandy or gritty soil rich in organic matter. Avoid compact or waterlogged soil.

Watering:
Keep the substrate slightly moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top layer to dry a bit before watering again. Drought‑tolerant when established.

Temperature:
Ideal range: 22 – 32 °C (72 – 90 °F). Mature plants can withstand short periods down to −2 °C (28 °F) if dry. Excellent for subtropical or coastal climates.

Fertilization:
Feed every two months during the active growing season with a slow‑release palm fertilizer or diluted liquid seaweed solution.

Pests & Diseases:
Highly resistant to most pests and diseases. Maintain airflow for seedlings to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.

Tips

• Keep consistent temperature and humidity until germination.
• Bottom heat significantly improves success.
• When the first leaf appears, slowly acclimate the plant to more light.
• This is a long‑lived collector’s palm that forms a beautiful silhouette with age — a stunning specimen for tropical gardens, greenhouses, and coastal landscapes.