Brahea decumbens

Common names

Sierra Madre Palm, Mexican Dwarf Blue Palm.

Curiosities

“Decumbens” refers to the reclined trunk ending in an erect crown.

Origin

Northeast of Mexico (San Luis Potosí, Taumalipas).

Habitat

Open, very dry areas in the limestone hills of Sierra Madre, between 1000 and 2000 m above sea level.

Morphology

A small bushy palm, often with a creeping trunk, up to 2 m tall. Leaves have a nice bluish colour given by the waxy surface, while young plants have green leaves. Fruits up to 1.5 cm long, covered with dense fibres.

Climate

Temperate. Usually tolerates temperatures down to -14ºC.

Germination

Seeds germinate easily, more than in the other Brahea.

Growing

Although a good ornamental, this palm is not widely cultivated since seeds are expensive and difficult to obtain, and is a quite slow grower. The extras are the high resistance to drought and poor soils and the enormous beauty. Prefers full sun and a well-drained position.