Cyrtostachys renda – the Lipstick Palm or Red sealing wax palm

Cyrtostachys renda is one of the most exotic and striking palms in the world, famous for its glossy red leaf stalks and trunks that look as if they were dipped in bright lipstick – hence its popular names “Lipstick Palm” or “Sealing Wax Palm.” Its natural habitat includes the tropical swamps and coastal forests of Sumatra, Borneo, Malaysia, and Southern Thailand, where it is considered a symbol of prestige and beauty.

In the wild, Cyrtostachys renda forms elegant clumps of not very tall stems and is cherished both in private gardens and as an accent in parks and public landscapes. In tropical Asia, it is often regarded as a symbol of prosperity, while in floristry its vivid red leaf stalks are a true attraction.

The plants offered for sale are three years old and have been grown in our nursery here in Bulgaria. Some of them have already started to produce offshoots. The first one to two years are the most difficult when cultivating this palm species. A larger plant develops a significantly stronger root system and grows better under our conditions.

Cultivation at home:

• Light: prefers bright, indirect light; should not be exposed to direct midday sun.

• Temperature: a warmth-loving palm from the equatorial climate, sensitive to cold. Year-round warm conditions are optimal, as temperatures below 20°C may cause damage.

• Watering: loves moisture and does not tolerate drought. The soil should be kept evenly moist.

• Soil reaction: requires acidic soil. Regular fertilization with iron sulfate is necessary several times a year. In areas with calcareous (lime-rich) water, fertilization with iron sulfate should be done once a month at a concentration of 3–4 g per liter of water.

• Humidity: high air humidity is essential for maintaining its beautiful appearance.

• Growth: slow-growing, but steady under the right conditions.

Cyrtostachys renda is not easy to cultivate outside the tropics, but if provided with sufficient warmth, moisture, and light, it rewards the grower with unmatched ornamental value. This is a plant that does not simply decorate a home, but transforms any space into a true tropical oasis.