Status:
valid
Authors:
Willd.
Source:
wcs
Year:
1799
Citation Micro:
Sp. Pl., ed. 4. 2: 203 (1799)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000758480
Common Names
- Black Rattan
- Black Calamus
- Rattan Palm
Description
Calamus niger (also called Black Rattan, among many other common names) is a species of climbing palm in the family Arecaceae. It is native to India and is found in tropical forests. Its stems are long and thin, with spines and a yellowish-green color. Its flowers are yellow in color and bloom in the summer.
Uses & Benefits
Calamus niger has many non-medical uses, including as an ornamental plant, for landscaping, and as a natural insect repellent. It is also used as a natural air freshener, and its leaves can be used to make baskets and other crafts.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flower of Calamus niger is a pale yellowish-green, with a yellowish-brown center. The seed is a single-seeded nutlet, and the seedlings are slender, with long, narrow leaves.
Cultivation and Propagation
Calamus niger can be propagated by division or by seed. The plant prefers well-drained, moist soil and partial shade. It is best to water the plant regularly and keep the soil slightly moist. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Where to Find Calamus niger
Calamus niger is native to India and can be found in the Western Ghats mountain range.
Calamus niger FAQ
What are the benefits of Calamus niger?
Calamus niger is known for its medicinal benefits, such as helping to reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and boost the immune system.
What type of soil is best for Calamus niger?
Calamus niger prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0.
What is the optimal temperature for Calamus niger?
Calamus niger prefers temperatures between 65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Species in the Calamus genus
Species in the Arecaceae family
Acanthophoenix crinita,
Acanthophoenix rubra,
Acanthophoenix rousselii,
Acoelorraphe wrightii,
Acrocomia aculeata,
Acrocomia crispa,
Acrocomia hassleri,
Acrocomia intumescens,
Acrocomia totai,
Acrocomia emensis,
Acrocomia glaucescens,
Acrocomia corumbaensi,
Actinorhytis calapparia,
Actinorhytis calapparia,
Adonidia merrillii,
Adonidia dransfieldii,
Aiphanes graminifolia,
Aiphanes bicornis,
Aiphanes buenaventurae,
Aiphanes multiplex,
Aiphanes acaulis,
Aiphanes chiribogensis,
Aiphanes concinna,
Aiphanes deltoidea,
Aiphanes duquei,
Aiphanes eggersii,
Aiphanes erinacea,
Aiphanes gelatinosa,
Aiphanes grandis,
Aiphanes hirsuta,
Aiphanes horrida,
Aiphanes killipii,
Aiphanes leiostachys,
Aiphanes lindeniana,
Aiphanes linearis,
Aiphanes macroloba,
Aiphanes minima,
Aiphanes parvifolia,
Aiphanes pilaris,
Aiphanes simplex,
Aiphanes spicata,
Aiphanes tricuspidata,
Aiphanes truncata,
Aiphanes ulei,
Aiphanes verrucosa,
Aiphanes weberbaueri,
Aiphanes argos,
Aiphanes tatama,
Aiphanes gloria,
Aiphanes decipiens,