Trithrinax schizophylla

Common names

Carandilla, Palma de Monte.

Curiosities

The trunks are used in construction, the leaves for roof thatching and to make hats and baskets.

Origin

South America.

Habitat

Along dry streams, where water runs underground.

Morphology

A clumping or single-trunked palm. The dead spiny fronds remain attached to the trunk. Ten to 25 green-grey, palmate leaves. Globular fruits, white or yellowish in colour.

Climate

Subtropical thru warm temperate. This palm has tolerated temperatures down to -5ºC (23ºF, USDA Zone 9a).

Germination

Difficult to germinate, only in some conditions. Needs some cool during night for good germination.

Growing

Starting to be common in cultivation. Sun to middle shade and lots of water. Sandy soils. Very cold resistant. Grows relatively fast.