Brahea edulis

Common names

Curiosities

Fruits are edible, “edulis” means edible.

Origin

Guadalupe Islands, in the Mexican coast.

Habitat

Rocky hills and slopes.

Morphology

A massive trunk up to 10-12 m tall and 40 cm in diameter. Rigid, green, palmate leaves, 20 cm long. Interfoliar inflorescence. Fruits round, dark green to black.

Climate

Subtropical to temperate.

Germination

Some seeds germinate after a few weeks while others take one or more years, so keep them for 2 years before discarding. This palm has tolerated temperaturesdown to –7.6ºC (18.3ºF, USDA Zone 8a).

Growing

Seen as a quite slow grower, it will thrive well under optimal conditions. Needs sun (even when young) and a well-drained position, although a shady place will also do.