Hyophorbe verschaffeltii is endemic to coastal savannas and hilly forests of the Mascarene Islands, where it is critically endangered. Hyophorbe verschaffeltii is commonly known as the Spindle Palm.

The Spindle Palm has spindle-shaped with the greatest diameter anywhere from the middle of the trunk to beneath the crownshaft. Mature trunks grow to 25 feet high. Their diameters are from slightly less than 1 foot to 18 inches. The vernacular name well describes the overall shape of the stems.

Hyophorbe verschaffeltii is slightly susceptible to lethal yellowing disease. It is slightly more tolerant of cold than is the bottle palm. It is marginal in zone 10a. Given enough space and high light levels. It makes a remarkably attractive indoor plant.

• Common name: Spindle Palm
• Origin: Mascarene Islands
• Spaced required: small palm, maximum height = 3-4 meters
• Prefered conditions: partial shade, plenty of water, tolerant of cold and need well-drained soils
• Seed germination: easy, attractive indoor plant
• Distinguishing features: Spindle-shaped trunk, usually six leaves in the leaf crown, the crown is quite round
• Status: common