Carol Cloud Bailey
Family
Arecaceae
Botanical Name
ACOELORRHAPHE wrightii
Plant Common Name
Everglades Palm, Paurotis Palm
General Description
The paurotis palm is a terrific multi-trunked, clump-forming palm crowned with large, fan-like fronds. It is native to the western Caribbean Basin, from the Bahamas westward to the Yucatan of Mexico and Costa Rica. Native populations also exist in the southernmost tip of Florida, hence its other common name, Everglades palm. This sun-loving palm can withstand moist soils, some drought and moderate salt spray, so it is also quite resilient.
Each rich green frond is like a wide fan comprising many long, sharp-tipped leaflets. The leaves tend to be lighter gray-green on the underside and are held by long leaf stems, or petioles, which are armed with many sharp, hooked teeth. As the leaves die, the petiole bases persist along the lengthening, fiber-coated trunks. During extended periods of rain and warmth, mature specimens will produce small creamy-yellow flowers in long clusters that arch above the leaf crown. The insect-pollinated flowers are followed by small, round fruits that turn from orange to black.
Paurotis palm does best in full sun and well-drained, moderately moist, slightly acid to neutral pH soil. It will tolerate considerable shade and soggy or drier soil, but will wane if planted in sandy oceanside conditions. Highly alkaline soils will also result in nutritional deficiencies and a scrawny habit. Its leaves and stems survive several degrees of freezing, but if killed to the ground will rejuvenate from the base. Prune out the dead fronds to keep it looking most lush, but be sure to use heavy gloves when doing so.
Use it as a foundation planting to soften building corners. It will also add tropical beauty to watersides.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
12 - 9
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USDA Hardiness Zone
8 - 14
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Sunset Zone
H1, H2, 22, 23, 24
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Plant Type
Palm or Cycad
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun, Partial Shade
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Height
15'-30' / 4.6m - 9.1m
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Width
10'-25' / 3.0m - 7.6m
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Bloom Time
Early Spring, Spring, Late Spring, Early Summer, Summer, Indeterminate
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Native To
Southeastern United States, Mexico, Caribbean, Central America
Growing Conditions
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Soil pH
Acidic, Neutral, Alkaline
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Soil Drainage
Average
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Soil type
Clay, Loam, Sand
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Tolerances
Wet Site, Drought, Salt, Soil Compaction
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Growth Rate
Slow
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Water Requirements
Drought Tolerant, Average Water, Ample Water
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Habit
Clump-Forming
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Seasonal Interest
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter
Ornamental Features
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Flower Interest
Insignificant
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Flower Color
Light Yellow, Ivory
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Fruit Color
Orange, Black
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Foliage Color (Spring)
Green, Light Green
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Foliage Color (Summer)
Green, Light Green
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Foliage Color (Fall)
Green, Light Green
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Foliage Color (Winter)
Green, Light Green
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Fragrant Flowers
No
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Fragrant Fruit
No
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Fragrant Foliage
No
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Bark or Stem Fragrant
No
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Flower Petal Number
Single
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Repeat Bloomer
No
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Showy Fruit
Yes
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Edible Fruit
No
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Showy Foliage
Yes
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Foliage Texture
Coarse
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Foliage Sheen
Matte
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Evergreen
Yes
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Showy Bark
No
Special Characteristics
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Usage
Container, Feature Plant, Foundation, Mixed Border, Screening / Wind Break, Tropical
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Sharp or Has Thorns
Yes
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Invasive
No
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Attracts
Birds
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Self-Sowing
Yes
