Bactris mexicana

Originating in southern Mexico and neighbouring countries, this unusual Bactris only grows to about 10 feet tall. It is clustering and has irregularly arranged leaflets on different planes, giving a plumose or whorled appearance. This, together with its orange fruit, presents a picture of a pretty, if spiny, palm, well worth growing in the tropical or sub-tropical garden or, when young, as a lovely house or conservatory palm.