Licuala grandis, commonly known as the ruffled fan palm or Vanuatu fan palm, is a stunning understory species prized for its perfectly circular, pleated leaves that form a solitary crown of dramatic architectural beauty. Native to the humid lowland forests of the South Pacific, this slow-growing palm typically reaches 6–10 feet in cultivation, developing a slender, smooth trunk topped with large, glossy green leaves that can span several feet across, each leaf nearly whole rather than deeply segmented—a characteristic that gives the plant its iconic, almost sculptural presence. Thriving in warm, sheltered environments with dappled shade, high humidity, and consistently moist, well-drained soil, Licuala grandis performs best when protected from strong winds and direct, scorching sunlight, which can tear or scorch its delicate fronds. In tropical and subtropical gardens it serves as a striking focal point, lending a lush, exotic ambiance to shaded courtyards, rainforest plantings, and container displays, while in cooler climates it is often grown indoors or in greenhouses for its ornamental foliage. Though sensitive to cold and requiring careful watering to avoid root rot, it rewards attentive care with a graceful, refined silhouette and a steady production of new fronds. As the plant matures, it may produce small, creamy inflorescences followed by clusters of bright red fruits, adding to its visual interest and reinforcing its status as one of the most elegant and distinctive fan palms in cultivation.