The flexible stems of this climbing palm are used to make all sorts of furniture, baskets, parasols and ropes. It is a well-known product from Sri Lanka, India and Bangladesh, where this species grows in the wild. The stems and leaves are covered in spines, which enable the plant to cling to other plants and trees. In this way, the main stem can grow to a height of around 10 metres, whilst the side stems can spread horizontally over a distance of up to 200 metres! In the wild, the species grows mainly in rainforests along the coast or near rivers. It is a dioecious plant, meaning that fruit can form on female plants. These fruits have a distinctive scaly pattern, are edible and contain a red pigment known locally as ‘dragon’s blood’.

It is a tropical species that can be kept as a houseplant. Young plants should be kept in a bright spot without direct sunlight. Older plants can tolerate direct sunlight, as they naturally grow above the canopy. Ensure the soil is well-draining, rich in organic matter and kept consistently slightly moist. As a houseplant, the species can be pruned effectively to control its size.

Sowing instructions: Once the seed has been received, they can be sown immediately in seed compost or cutting compost. Cover them to maintain higher humidity and place them in a spot with indirect light. A temperature between 24 and 30 degrees Celsius is ideal for initial growth.

Specifications:

• Family: Arecaceae
• Scientific name: Calamus rotang
• Common name: Common rattan
• Native to: India, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh
• Sowing time: All year round
• Difficulty level: Intermediate
• Minimum temperature: 15 degrees Celsius