Common name: Vampire Palm.

This striking, small palm to 1.8m (6') tall is native to Southeast Mexico and Central America, where is grows in rainforests from sea level up to 1500m (4800') into the cloud forests. This is a somewhat variable species with four accepted subspecies. Leaves can be either bifid or unevenly pinnate up to 1.2m (4') in length and dark green. The emergent leaves are frequently a deep red or maroon colour, adding to it's ornamental appeal. The common name has been given due to pollination by bats. Although the high altitude of it's natural range, ensures that this palm is cool tolerant, it is not really hardy to cold and will show some leaf damage with even a mild frost. It requires partial to deep shade and plenty of moisture in a free draining soil. It does, however, make a wonderful container plant, providing it's requirements are met.