Description

Coccothrinax alta, commonly known as the Guano or Silver Palm, is a slender and elegant tropical palm known for its silver-green, fan-shaped fronds and tall, slender trunk. This palm is highly valued for its ornamental beauty and striking foliage, making it a standout feature in tropical and subtropical landscapes.

Flowers

The Silver Palm produces small, creamy-white flowers that grow in clusters on branched inflorescences among the leaves. These flowers are followed by small, round, black fruits, adding to the plant's ornamental interest.

Foliage

The leaves are palmate (fan-shaped) and silver-green, providing a shimmering appearance in the sunlight. Each leaf can reach up to 1 meter in diameter and is divided into multiple narrow segments that radiate from a central point. The leaf stalks (petioles) are slender and smooth, contributing to the palm's elegant look.

Fruit

The fruit is a small, round drupe that turns from green to black as it matures. While not typically consumed, the fruit adds seasonal interest to the plant.

Form and Size

The Silver Palm typically grows to a height of 6-15 meters with a spread of 1-2 meters. It has a single, slender, and smooth trunk that is topped with a crown of arching fronds. The trunk is grey and often marked by ringed leaf scars, contributing to its impressive appearance.

Growing Conditions

• Soil: Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils. It can tolerate poor soils and is drought-tolerant once established.
• Sunlight: Thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a range of light conditions, making it adaptable to various garden settings.
• Water: Requires moderate watering, especially during dry periods. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought once established.
• Climate: Suitable for tropical and subtropical climates. It is relatively frost-tolerant but prefers warm, humid conditions.

Uses

• Landscaping: Ideal for use as a specimen plant, in group plantings, or as a focal point in gardens. It is also suitable for coastal gardens and xeriscaping.
• Ornamental: The silver-green, fan-shaped fronds and slender trunk provide a dramatic and exotic look, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of any garden or landscape.
• Containers: Can be grown in large containers for patios and poolside areas.

Maintenance

• Pruning: Minimal pruning required. Remove any dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance. Take care when handling due to the sharp edges of the fronds.
• Fertilizing: Benefits from occasional feeding with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
• Pest and Disease: Generally pest-resistant but can be susceptible to scale insects and spider mites. Ensure good air circulation and avoid waterlogging to minimize disease risk.

Notes

The Silver Palm is a versatile and low-maintenance plant that adds a distinctive tropical flair to any garden or landscape. Its unique silver-green foliage and elegant form make it a favorite among palm enthusiasts and landscape designers.

Companion Plants

• Agave americana (Century Plant)
• Heliconia spp. (Heliconia)
• Alpinia zerumbet (Shell Ginger)
• Strelitzia reginae (Bird of Paradise)

Common Name

Guano, Silver Palm

Botanical Name

Coccothrinax alta

Family

Arecaceae

Origin

Native to Cuba

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