Rhopalostylis Sapida, commonly known as the Nikau Palm, is New Zealand’s only native palm and one of the country's most iconic landscape plants. Valued for its elegant form, lush tropical appearance and graceful arching fronds, the Nikau Palm brings a distinctive native character to gardens and outdoor spaces.

Slow growing and long-lived, it develops a tall, straight trunk with attractive ring markings over time, while a prominent crown shaft forms at the base of the fronds. Mature specimens create a striking architectural feature and can eventually reach heights of up to 15 metres.

Nikau Palms thrive in sheltered locations with moist, well-drained soil and perform best in part shade, particularly when young. While relatively hardy in cooler climates, protection from heavy frosts is recommended to ensure healthy growth and establishment.

Plant Information

• Common Name: Nikau Palm
• Botanical Name: Rhopalostylis Sapida
• Height: Up to 15m at maturity
• Habit: Upright palm with spreading fronds
• Foliage: Evergreen tropical-style fronds
• Position: Part shade
• Soil Moisture: Moist, well-drained soil
• Exposure: Sheltered locations
• Usage: Feature planting, native gardens, subtropical landscapes, courtyards, and specimen planting
• Container Sizes: 4L pot
• Grade: 50cm to 1.3m tall

Key Benefits

• New Zealand's only native palm
• Elegant tropical appearance
• Attractive ringed trunk develops with age
• Long-lived and highly architectural
• Ideal feature plant for sheltered gardens
• Evergreen year-round interest
• Excellent for native and subtropical landscapes
• Creates a distinctive New Zealand garden aesthetic

Ideal For

• Feature planting
• Native garden designs
• Courtyards and sheltered spaces
• Tropical and subtropical landscapes
• Woodland gardens
• Premium landscape projects

Only available in the Canterbury area. Hand delivery is guaranteed; packaging may vary depending on quantity ordered. Safe and secure arrangements to be made directly with the customer. Pick up is also an option if suitable.