Caryota gigas is indigenous to wet, mountainous forests in southern China, northern Laos and northeastern Thailand where it grows usually in colonies from elevations of 4000-5300 feet. The commonly name known as Mountain fishtail and Giant fishtail. In nature, the trunks of this species attain heights of more than 100 feet. They have tan stem which straight and columnar, wider near their midpoints than at either end. The canopy is sparse with leaves which grow only from the top of the trunk. They have triangle-shaped leaf is enormous about 20 feet long and half as wide. The inflorescence is among the largest for a flowering plant. It is much branched, pendent and to 20 feet long. The red seeds are globose.

The Mountain fishtail has a modicum of cold tolerance. It has endured temperatures as low as 30F with little or no damage and is a good species for the cooler tropical or nearly tropical regions. It needs enough moisture, rich, humus-laden soil. But is adapted to full sun in all but the hottest regions.

Caryota gigas is large and beautiful enough to be a specimen plant. Especially in groups of three or more individuals of varying heights. It can be grown indoors in a truly monstrous atrium or conservatory with lots of light and moisture.

• Common name: Mountain fishtail and Giant fishtail Palm
• Origin: Thailand, China and Northern Laos
• Spaced required: very height = 4000-5300 feet
• Prefered conditions: cold tolerance, receives enough moisture, needs a rich, humus-laden soil, adapte to full sun
• Seed germination: normal
• Distinguishing features: tan stem, triangle-shaped leaf, much branched, red seeds
• Status: rare in cultivation