Phoenicophorium Sechellarum - Vintage Botanical Print of the Magnificent Seychelles Spiny Palm

Phoenicophorium sechellarum Wendl.

Reproduction of Plate XII of Palm Trees, iconographic history by Oswald de Kerchove de Denterghen

This masterpiece, illustrated by P. De Pannemaker, presents work of exceptional precision and introduces the notice of this plate as follows:

Of all the hothouse palms, the Phoenicophorium sechellarum is one of the most beautiful, although it is stemless or, at least, its trunk is short. Its leaves widen from the base to the top, which is obtuse and divided into two lobes separated by a deep notch. When young, they are pleated and embossed, and their bronze color is not one of the least beauties of this magnificent palm. In adult leaves this tint disappears, and the leaves become greenish; but even then they offer the most beautiful appearance. Their color is not uniform: the leaf blade presents all the shades of green, in the middle of which appear a large number of buff-colored spots. The petioles are short, thick, of the same color as the spots, and, like all the thorny palms of the Sechellas, furnished with long, straight, flattened, jet-black spines. Native to the Séchelles Islands, the Phoenicophorium requires the shelter of a warm, humid greenhouse to thrive in all its splendor. Placed in these conditions, it becomes one of the most admirable palms in our collections.

Each drawing, drawn from life, invites us to explore the richness and diversity of palm species through a scientific and artistic lens. This plate, like the entire collection, combines history, geography, botany, and culture, offering a comprehensive view of these fascinating plants. The extraordinary attention to detail allows us to understand not only the morphological characteristics of palms, but also their adaptation to diverse environments and their uses throughout the ages.

Treat yourself to a work that combines art and science by acquiring this reproduction. This faithful testimony to the diversity of palm trees combines botanical precision and natural elegance, capturing the essence of these plants through a rigorous and artistic representation. Ideal for botany enthusiasts, art lovers, or collectors, this work highlights the artist's attention to detail and scientific approach, while paying homage to the richness of flora. A timeless piece, where the beauty of palm trees meets the meticulous observation of nature.

Note: the sign placed after the name of the plant indicates whether the palm is a cold greenhouse (+) or hot greenhouse (o).