Rhapis excelsa ‘Koban’, Puffy Leaf Lady Palm

Rhapis excelsa ‘Koban’, commonly known as the Puffy Leaf Lady Palm, is a distinctive variety of the popular Rhapis excelsa, or Lady Palm. This cultivar is admired for its unique features, making it a favorite among palm enthusiasts and collectors. Here’s some information about it:

Key Features:

1. Leaf Shape: The ‘Koban’ variety is characterized by its broader, puffier leaflets compared to the standard Rhapis excelsa. This gives the plant a more lush and rounded appearance.
2. Growth Habit: Like other Rhapis excelsa varieties, ‘Koban’ has a clumping growth habit, producing multiple slender trunks with dense foliage.
3. Height: It is a relatively compact variety, typically reaching a height of 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters) indoors or slightly taller outdoors in ideal conditions.
4. Color: The leaves are a vibrant green, contributing to its striking visual appeal.
5. Durability: This variety is just as hardy as the standard Rhapis excelsa, thriving in low-light indoor settings and tolerating a wide range of conditions.

Care Tips:

• Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light levels.
• Water: Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as the roots are sensitive to waterlogged conditions.
• Temperature: Thrives in temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). Protect it from frost.
• Soil: Use well-draining potting soil with good aeration.
• Humidity: Benefits from moderate humidity but is adaptable to drier indoor air.

Applications:

The compact and lush nature of Rhapis excelsa ‘Koban’ makes it an excellent choice for:

• Indoor greenery.
• Patio or shaded outdoor areas.
• Aesthetic landscaping in tropical or subtropical regions.

This rare and visually distinct cultivar is perfect for those seeking a sophisticated addition to their plant collection!