Heterospathe phillipsii

It is a lowland forest species - it is found in areas that are continually converted for agriculture and pasture activities. Fire is also a threat.

There are three known ex situ collections of this species. This species is found in Nakavu, which used to be a site of the Natural Forest Management project but is not a long term reserve. This area is a demonstartion site for "sustainable harvesting". There is no protected area with this species in the wild. Its conservation status is very insecure as it is found in lowland forest areas in the lower Rewa River catchment and most of these forests have already been cleared for alternative use and the remaining area is being steadily cleared for agriculture or pasture. The identification of a population which can be protected is a high priority. Additional recommendations for conservation include: i) seed collections and establishing ex situ sites in country, ii) enhancement planting), and iii) awareness and engagement of land owners and regulatory authorities. Research is also needed into population size, declines and ecology.