Verschaffeltia splendida ("Latanier Latte" or stilt palm[2]) is a species of flowering plant in the family Arecaceae. It is the only species in the genus Verschaffeltia.[citation needed]

It is found only in Seychelles where it is threatened by habitat loss. The name comes from the Belgian Ambroise Verschaffelt.

Description

This species can be distinguished from all other palm species of the Seychelles, by its characteristic stilt-roots.

The slender trunk has a very hard outer covering. The leaves are initially unbroken, and those of the young plants have black spines on their stalks. They bear green-brown fruits with unique seeds.

  • The stilt-roots of this species
    The stilt-roots of this species
  • The black spines that cover the stem and leaves of young plants
    The black spines that cover the stem and leaves of young plants
  • The unbroken young leaves
    The unbroken young leaves

References

  1. ^ Ismail, S.; Huber, M.J.; Mougal, J. (2011). "Verschaffeltia splendida". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2011: e.T38722A10145395. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2011-2.RLTS.T38722A10145395.en. Retrieved 14 November 2021.
  2. ^ Palmpedia