The palm you have is Hyophorbe vershafeltii - aka the Spindle Palm
from Madagascar. It is unusual to see these included in collections,
since they are relatively uncommon. It can be tricky as a house plant
and can suffer if growing conditions are radically altered. Repotting
should not take place during winter - although it will still try to
grow, the roots are more sensitive to a combination of excess moisture
and cold conditions.

Ideally, it should remain above 15C at night as a young plant -
especially if those have been the temperatures that is has previously
enjoyed. I would bring it into a warmer place immediately and water
very carefully for the next few weeks. If the central 'spear' (new
frond) continues to grow, it would appear that only the older leaves
have been damaged. In time, given good conditions, it will develop
into a handsome specimen. Mind you, "in time" is the operative
phrase. They can grow fast when happy, but give them a set-back and
they take an age to recover.

However, it is well worth the effort - Hyophorbe makes a very graceful
palm with semi-erect fronds so that even when large, it takes up
relatively little space. Spray the foliage regularly and feed with
half strength general liquid fertiliser every month from May to
October and every 8 - 10 weeks at other times. It seems to do better
when slightly pot-bound, so repotting should only be considered when
the container is stuffed with roots. Good luck.


Dave Poole
Torquay, Coastal South Devon UK
Winter min -2°C. Summer max 34°C.
Growing season: March - November