The Molokaʻi Pritchardia (Pritchardia lowreyana) is a species of fan palm that is endemic to the Hawaiian island of Moloka’i in Maui County. It is found in mixed mesic and wet forests on the northern/windward shores of the island. Pritchardia lowreyana is a small palm, reaching a height of 2–4 m (6.6–13.1 ft). It normally grows in gulches and on cliffs. The conservation status for the Moloka’i Pritchardia is listed as Vulnerable as it is not regenerating well because of seed predation by rats, pigs and goats. The Merwin Palm Collection includes a juvenile specimen of this tree.
Dan says
Loulu palm in Hawaiian?
Merwin Conservancy says
Yes, in general, all native Hawaiian Pritchardia are referred to as “loulu” palms, but there are 19 different species endemic to Hawaii. And 29 species of Pritchardia world-wide.
Trish Saunders says
It’s a perfectly lovely palm! The courage of a plant like this to fling down roots on a cliffside and, against all odds, grow to a height of four feet.
Thanks for all you do to preserve our spectacular island foliage.