Coccothrinax spissa

Common names

Guano, Swollen Silver Thatch Palm, Hispaniola Belly Palm.

Origin

Dominican Republic.

Habitat

Endemic to Baní-Azua, the driest area of the country, in forest edges.

Morphology

A single trunk, up to 8 m tall, with a characteristic swelling which can reach 30 cm. Leaves have a silvery-grey underside. Fruits are globular, dark purple.

Climate

Tropical and subtropical.

Germination

Growing

Although a slow grower, this palm is extending as ornamental because of the beauty of its trunk.