It’s the “broom-like” appendage sprouting off the side of the palm – if you look closely, you can see where the bloom is being supported by a wooden frame.

The staff here at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden have been watching this palm with great anticipation – it’s the first time our Spindle Palm has bloomed.

If you’d like to take a look —maybe this coming Easter Weekend or during next week’s spring break—come on by the Conservatory. The Spindle Palm is in the orchid wing.

Some quick facts about the Spindle Palm: it’s a slow grower and an excellent choice for interiors or greenhouses. The name comes from its spindle-shaped flower shaft. The Spindle Palm is native to Rodriquez Island off the coast of Madagascar. Sadly, it has been greatly reduced in its natural habitat and is threatened with extinction.

Which is one reason we are here – to preserve this plant and share it with you!

Below is a wider shot that includes more of the tree.

Hyophorbe verschaffeltii or Spindle Palm.

Beth Monroe is public relations director at Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden

How exciting!  Great confirmation of how well you care for the plants!  This is a real treat.

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