Family: Arecaceae
Archontophoenix purpurea, commonly known as the purple king palm or Mount Lewis king palm, is an elegant palm native to the rainforests of northeastern Queensland, Australia. This species is prized for its striking appearance, featuring a slender trunk topped with a crown of gracefully arching, pinnate leaves. Its name derives from the distinctive purplish hue at the base of new fronds, which adds a unique ornamental appeal. The palm thrives in tropical to subtropical climates and prefers well-drained soil, regular moisture, and partial to full sun, making it suitable for gardens and landscaping in Hawaii. While it grows relatively slowly compared to some other palms, its striking form and tropical aesthetic make it a highly desirable landscape plant.
Although Archontophoenix purpurea is not currently naturalized in Hawaii, it does possess traits that could allow it to establish and spread in favorable conditions, such as adaptability to tropical climates and production of numerous seeds. These characteristics are cause for concern, and further evaluation is needed to determine whether it could impact native ecosystems or natural areas in the islands. For now, it is primarily grown as an ornamental plant, but careful monitoring and assessment are recommended to ensure it does not become invasive in Hawaiian landscapes.
High Risk Traits:
- Thrives in sub-tropical climates
- Broad climate suitability
- Related species have naturalized or become invasive
- Fleshy-fruits presumably adapted for dispersal by birds and other frugivorous animals
Low Risk Traits:
- No records of naturalization or invasiveness elsewhere
- Unarmed (no spines, thorns or burrs)
- Non-toxic
- Relatively slow growth rate and long time to maturity
- Landscaping and ornamental value
- Seeds may be recalcitrant and limit the ability of forming a soil seed bank
