Calamus is a genus of flowering plants in the palm family Arecaceae that is one of several genera known as rattan palms. There are an estimated 400 species in this genus, all native to tropical and subtropical Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Description

They are dioecious, mostly leaf-climbing lianas with slender, reedy stems. To aid scrambling some species have evolved hooks on the underside of the midrib, or more commonly by modified "pinnae" or tendrils in the form of stout, backward-pointing spines. These stems may grow to lengths of 200 metres. The fruits of certain species, in particular Calamus draco, produce a red resin known as "Dragon's blood".

Species

, Plants of the World Online recognises 415 species:

Uses

The stems may be harvested for their cores, which are used for everything from canes to furniture.