Nannorrhops ritchiana

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Nannorrhops ritchiana, the Mazari palm, one of the very hardiest palms in the world was, until recently, also one of the rarest in cultivation. Finally, after several years of work, literally hundreds of faxes and phone calls, and not least of all, a trip to Pakistan (not our favourite holiday destination), we located what we hope will be a regular source of seeds of this tough and attractive palm. Its high altitude desert origin in Northern Pakistan and Afghanistan (to about 1700m/5600ft a.s.l.) gives an indication of its requirements viz: hot, dry, and bright. Mature Nannorrhops ritchiana are sucessfully culivated in such diverse places as Florida, California, Texas, Italy, France, and Venezuela, indicating that it will thrive in temperate areas just as well as in the cooler tropics. In winter, if kept dry, it may resist temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F). With summer heat it is relatively fast growing, and will develop into a large shrub with several short, erect trunks and very thick, blue-green, leathery fan-shaped leaves. It is a palm which surely everyone will want to have in their collections.

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If the seeds appear dry, soak them in warm water for 1-3 days. For sowing, use peat, cocofiber, or similar media. It should be moist but not wet. Take a fistful. If you can just squeeze a couple of drops of water from it, then it is about right. If you can squeeze more, then it is too wet. If too dry, add a little water and try again. Mix the seeds with the moist compost and place into a clear plastic (ziploc) bag, label with species name and date, and seal.No light is required for germination. Tropical species such as Licuala, Bismarckia or Cyrtostachys require heat, around 30°C/90°F. Temperate species such as Trachycarpus, Ceroxylon or Parajubaea will germinate at lower temperatures, and heat may actually prevent germination. You may want to check our website for individual requirements.Check weekly for signs of activity by looking for white roots through the plastic. Ensure that the medium does not dry out. The seeds can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 years (or more) to germinate; however, most will sprout after 4-6 weeks.After the seeds have sprouted, plant each in a tall, narrrow pot using a well-drained medium, label, and place in ample light, but not in full sun. Aim to keep the soil moist (but not wet) at all times, feed and pot on as required.