Gaussia maya

Common names

Maya Palm.

Curiosities

The trunks are used in construction.

Origin

Mexico, Belize, Guatemala.

Habitat

Lives in poor, rocky, limestone based soils.

Morphology

A single slender trunk. A small crown of pinnate, feather-like leaves. Aerial roots are often present. Fruits bright red.

Climate

Warm and moist climate. This palm has tolerated temperatures down to –2.2ºC (28ºF, USDA Zone 9b).

Germination

Seeds usually germinate in around 2 months.

Growing

Likes a shady, moist and well-drained position as a youngster, but can take more sun as it grows.