Propagation
Plant fresh seeds in a deep container to 150mm (6in) deep during spring, keep moist and maintain a temperature of 19ş to 27şC. (66ş to 81şF). Sporadic germination may take up to 18 months and, do not allow the seed to dry out before sowing.


Botanic information
Leaf: The large costapalmate fronds have a cuneate base with a pleated appearance and the 3m (10ft) long petiole extends as a mid rib through the leaf blade.

Both the petioles and lower leaf margin are armed with saw-like sharp teeth and the apex is jagged. The underside is heavily covered in silvery-white tomentose giving a bluish appearance.
Note
The cardboard textured fronds collect falling leaves and funnel them to the base of the plant enhancing the soil condition. The fronds are unbelievably attractive and the main feature of the plant.

Flower: The small inflorescence appears from the leaf base on a short brown peduncle with several sterile bracts. The rachis has several branches and the cream coloured bisexual cyathiform flowers appear in clusters of 2 to 3.

The flowers have 3-short lobes and 3-petals that may be united at the base and are valvate. It contains 6-stamens and the ovary is 3-celled. They appear from late spring to early summer.

Fruit: The light brown corky drupe is covered in conical projections giving it a warty appearance. The small seed intrudes into the endosperm.