Laccospadix australasicus

Laccospadix australasicus, commonly known as the Atherton palm or Queensland feather palm, is a rare and elegant clustering palm native to the cool, misty rainforests of northern Queensland, Australia. It features slender, bamboo-like trunks with a smooth crownshaft and delicate, arching fronds that give it a refined, tropical appearance. New foliage often emerges with a bronze or reddish flush, adding a subtle blush of colour before maturing to deep green. It typically forms multi-stemmed clumps, although solitary-stemmed forms also exist.

Highly adaptable to indoor cultivation, L. australasicus is one of the few palms that tolerate lower light and cooler temperatures, making it suitable for sheltered patios, shaded decks, or bright indoor spaces. Its still uncommon in cultivation, especially in New Zealand, and prized for its tidy, upright form and refined tropical look.

Non-toxic to pets.

Care Instructions
Light: Bright, indirect light or dappled shade. Avoid harsh direct sun, especially in summer.
Water: Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy. Allow the top few centimetres to dry slightly between waterings.
Humidity: Prefers moderate to high humidity. Mist in dry indoor environments.
Temperature: Keep above 10C. Can tolerate cooler temps than most tropical palms.
Fertiliser: Use a slow-release palm fertiliser in spring, or feed monthly with a diluted liquid fertiliser during active growth.
Pruning: Remove old or damaged fronds at the base. Avoid damaging the crownshaft.
Repotting: Every 23 years or when rootbound. Use a free-draining palm or tropical mix.
Pests: Generally resilient, but watch for scale or spider mites in dry conditions. Wipe fronds occasionally to keep clean