After German Prince Otto von Bismarck (1815–1898), first German chancellor.

A single-species genus. For description see B. nobilis.

Occurs in savannah, often in huge colonies.

Fresh seed germinates readily.

1 species from Madagascar.

Dransfield & Beentje (1995).

Source: Jones, D; Spencer, R. (2005). Arecaceae. In: Spencer, R.. Horticultural Flora of South-eastern Australia. Volume 5. Flowering plants. Monocotyledons. The identification of garden and cultivated plants. University of New South Wales Press.