Also known as Chidra · Jipijapa · Jipipapa
Panama Hat Plant (Carludovica palmata) is a tropical perennial prized for its attractive palmate leaves and as the source of toquilla straw for authentic Panama hats.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Regularly
75% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allow top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-27°C. Avoid cold drafts and sudden temperature fluctuations.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer during the growing season. Do not fertilize in dormancy.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly during winter months when growth slows.
Prune to maintain desired shape and size, and to remove any dead or damaged leaves. Cut stems back to just above a leaf node. Pruning can also encourage denser growth. Remove spent flower stalks to improve appearance.
Propagate by division of rhizomes or by stem cuttings. Divisions are best done in spring when repotting. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems and placed in moist potting mix.
Rooting hormone can aid in faster establishment.
Repot every 2-3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Spring is the ideal time for repotting. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, using a well-draining potting mix.
Ensure adequate drainage holes.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Panama Hat Plant (Carludovica palmata)
Where Panama Hat Plant (Carludovica palmata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Pandanales |
| Family | Cyclanthaceae |
| Genus | Carludovica |
| Species | Carludovica palmata |
Similar in genus Carludovica
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
