True Rattan (Calamus rotang ) Seeds
Quantity : 10 Seeds

Calamus rotang is a vigorous, evergreen climbing palm native to India, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar. Well-known as the primary source of commercial rattan, this species produces long, slender, and flexible stems that can exceed 30 meters in length. These unbranched, spiny canes are widely harvested from the wild and serve as the foundation for a wide range of traditional and modern products—from woven baskets and furniture to strong ropes and bridge supports.

Habitat & Growth
This rainforest species thrives in warm, humid environments with partial sunlight and rich, moist soils. While young plants are sensitive to strong light, mature vines benefit from light gaps in the forest canopy that encourage rapid vertical growth. It prefers shady, humid habitats, and performs best with roots in the shade and stems climbing toward filtered light. Seedlings require periodic weeding and managed shade during early establishment.

As a dioecious plant, both male and female individuals are needed for fruit and seed production.

Cultural & Economic Uses
Rattan Cane (Primary Use):
Calamus rotang is renowned as the finest source of rattan cane in global trade. Its stems are prized for their strength, flexibility, and glossy straw-yellow finish. After harvesting, the canes are cleaned, split, and processed into various widths depending on use—from delicate basketry and hat weaving (1–3 mm) to furniture frames and lashings in traditional construction (5–6 mm). Larger stems are twisted into durable cables and even used in native suspension bridges.

Edible Uses:

Young shoots are cooked and eaten as a vegetable.

Fruits are small, scaly, and globular (about 13 mm in diameter), with a mildly acidic pulp that can be eaten raw or pickled—traditionally used to quench thirst.

Medicinal Uses:

The wood is believed to expel intestinal worms.
Leaves are used in treating biliousness and blood disorders.
The root is used to reduce chronic fevers and is also considered an antidote to snake venom.

Propagation & Cultivation
Propagation is typically done via seed, which must be sown fresh due to short viability. Seedlings require 40–50% light penetration to promote optimal stem growth during the early years. Once established, the plant needs minimal care beyond occasional weeding until it reaches maturity.

Fun Fact:
In many rural communities, Calamus rotang is so valued for its strength and versatility that it’s not only a material but a part of architectural heritage—serving as ties, lashes, and load-bearing elements in traditional buildings.