Queen Palm

Butia capitata

This fast growing, single-trunked palm is crowned by a head of soft, bright green, glossy leaves that grow upward more than outward, forming a very graceful canopy. Below its canopy is a smooth straight grey trunk that is evenly ringed with spaced leaf scars. While Queens are young, the boots may still be intact and not show the smooth grey trunk. When planted in informal groupings, Queens provide soft filtered sunlight and soft rustling sounds perfect for shade gardens. They are often used to frame views such as lining streets and boulevards.

They grow best in full sun and are most suited for acidic, well-drained soils. During the summer months, expect to see beautiful flowers on a green stalk that grows beneath its leaves. Then in the winter months, green fruit will appear in 6 foot bunches that will turn orange as it matures, creating a colorful show. The fruits, also called “dates” are not edible and will eventually fall to the ground and need to be cleaned up so it does not attract pests.

The Queen Palm is a palm of many names. It was known for many years as Cocos plumosa. Then in 1916, the genus of Cocos was broken up into seven groups, this is where it got its name Arescastrum romanofzianna. Later on, the species changed to its present name, Syagrus romanzoffiana.

Ornamental Characteristics:

Native Origin:
South America (eastern Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay)

Common Names:
Butia Palm, Cocos Palm, Feather Coconut, Giriba Palm, Queen Palm

Description:
Hardy Range:  9B – 11
Mature Height: 25 to 50’
Mature Spread: 15 – 25’
Growth Rate: Fast

Ornamental Characteristics:
Queen Palms have a single trunk with a smooth grey bark. The trunk has rings that originated from old leaf base attachments. It has glossy fronds that drape towards the ground. The flowers give rise to orange dates. It requires full sun and well drained, acidic soils. Queen palms grow quickly and can reach up to 50 feet tall.

Environment:
Soil: clay; sand; loam; acidic; well-drained; occasionally wet
Salt: Moderate
Drought Tolerance: Moderate
Exposure: Full sun