The Satakentia is a genus from the Palm family and has only one species: the Satekentia liukiuensis. The species only occurs on the Japanese subtropical islands of Ishigaki Jima and Iriomote Jima, which are part of the island group Liukyu (Ryukyu). The origin of the palm is also reflected in the name of the species: Liukyuensis is Latin and means 'from Liukyu'. The narrow green-grey to brown trunk of a Satakentia is vertically striped and has visible traces (rings) of fallen leaves. The graceful leaves have a short petiole, are pinnate and can reach a length of 2.5 to 3 meters. A Satakentia liukiuensis can reach a height of 9 to 10 meters.

Location

To thrive, a Satakentia needs a very light and warm living environment. In full sun, the leaves can burn, so the tree is best placed two meters from a south-facing window, or directly in front of a west or east-facing window. A north-facing position is too dark. TheSatekentia liukiuensis is a slow grower, but if the production of new leaves does not occur at all, the palm is too dark.

Watering

TheSatakentia is a moderate drinker, but likes a slightly moist soil. It is therefore preferable to give smaller amounts of water at a time and make sure that the excess water can drain away. Also make sure you have a well-draining substrate, because the Satakentia is sensitive to root rot. If the palm gets too little water, the leaves will droop.

Spraying and Temperature

The seawater around the islands of Ishigaki Jima and Iriomote Jima evaporates and lingers between the forest-like hills where the Satakentia liukiuensis grows. This leads to high humidity. To match this natural habitat as much as possible, regular misting is necessary. Misting ensures high humidity, promotes the health of the palm and protects it from pests. Preferably spray once a week with rainwater or decalcified water to prevent lime deposits on the leaves. The minimum ambient temperature for a Satakentia is16°C. The palm copes well with maximum temperatures, which may be as high as 24-26°C..

Pruning

As a member of the Palm family, the Satakentia also produces new leaves from above. The lower leaves die off and this is how the trunk is formed. In this process, the lower old leaves first turn brown and/or yellow and will eventually wither. If the leaves start to discolour, recovery will no longer take place and it is best to cut the leaves off at the trunk. Leaving these old leaves on costs the palm a lot of energy.

Nutrition

In the spring and summer months, the Satakentialiukiuensis need additional nutrition. In addition to supporting growth, nutrition also intensifies the green colour of the leaves. There is special palm food that you can use for this. The recommended number of feedings and the amount per time is stated on the plant food's packaging.