Calamus flagellum

Rattan
Calamus flagellum

Rattans are unusual vine-like palms which do not produce the characteristic clustered crown of foliage. Instead, they have long spaces between each leaf on their very spiny stems and scramble up adjacent trees in the rainforest.

Primarily native to south west Asia, this species also occurs in China and Nepal. Raw rattans can be used to make a host of domestic products, exploiting the lightweight, strong and durable character of the stems. The skin (bark) is used for weaving baskets and small containers, while the stripped core is excellent for furniture, much of which is found in contemporary western conservatories.

This post is part of The World of Palms Glasshouse Trail