Bentinckia nicobarica is a solitary palm endemic to the lowland rainforests in the Nicobar archipelago in south Asia on the eastern edge of Bay of Bengal, where the Bay meets the Andaman Sea. It is found on the islands of Great Nicobar, Katchal, Nancowry, and Car Nicobar.
This species is listed as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, as increased human settlement and clearing of forests in the region has resulted in severe habitat loss. UNESCO has declared one of their native habitats, Great Nicobar Island, as one of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Bentinckia nicobarica grows about 60 feet tall and about with a slender trunk, usually about 10 inches wide. A solitary palm, it has arching pinnate leaves and a light green crown shaft. The stems have been traditionally used by the local Nicobar island people in house and fence construction.
There are four of this species being protected at The Merwin Conservancy.
Want to virtually “explore” the Merwin Palm Collection? Search through our archive of Palm Facts of the Week, featuring palms hand-planted by W.S Merwin. To search through the Online Merwin Palm Database, visit this link.
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