Copernicia berteroana

Common names

Yarey.

Curiosities

After Giuseppe Bertero, a physician and collector of the 18th-19th century, and the also physician Copernic. Trunks are used in construction, the wood is highly resistant, and leaves to make hats.

Origin

Hispaniola (the actual Haiti and Dominican Republic).

Habitat

Open forest.

Morphology

Trunk usually taller than 5 m. Petioles are long, and leaf lamina is circular. Leaves are divided in about 100 segments, bright green, with a waxy underside.

Climate

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

Germination

Growing

Requires a sunny, moist, but well-drained position. Drought tolerant, but slow grower.