Jelly palm - Butia capitata (Care, Characteristics, Symbolism, Images)

Jelly palm

Also known as: Cocos capitata, Pindo palm, Wine palm, Pindo

Jelly palm (Butia capitata) is a palm tree that grows from 3 to 6 m tall and 3 to 4.5 m wide. It has a solitary trunk and blue-green leaves that curve down and under towards the trunk. Fragrant, small yellow flowers appear in long spikes up to 91 cm long and bloom in summer. Sweet, orange, edible fruits follow in late summer to early fall. Easy to grow, it is salt, heat and drought tolerant and will add a tropical look to garden or landscape.

Scientific classification

Species

Jelly palm (Butia capitata)

Palms, bullanocks, and allies

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4.5 m to 6 m

Plant Height

3 m to 4.5 m

Spread

Green, Silver, Gray, Blue

Leaf Color

2.5 cm

Flower Size

Orange, Yellow, Gold, Red

Fruit Color

Yellow, Red, Cream

Flower Color

Green, Silver

Stem Color

Winter dormancy

Dormancy

Evergreen

Leaf type

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Spring

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Jelly palm

Distribution of Jelly palm

Distribution Map

Jelly palm is a plant species originally native to the southern regions of South America. Over time, it has been introduced and cultivated in various temperate and subtropical regions across the globe. This cultivation extends to similar climates where the species has been able to thrive, expanding its presence beyond its native range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Grassland plains near the coast

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Flowering

Fruiting

Culture

Symbolism

Victory, strength

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Quickly Identify Jelly palm

Robust trunk, 1 1/2 feet (45 cm) in diameter and up to 20 feet (6 meters) tall.

Gray-green leaves, 5-10 feet (1.5-3 meters) long, with arching and curving form.

Toothed leaf petioles with 25-60 pairs of narrow, pointed, bilobed leaflets.

Pink-tinged cream flowers in late spring, followed by orange-yellow cherry-sized fruits in summer.

Distinctive bark with old leaf remnants, rugged or smooth trunk without crownshaft.

Pinnate, featherlike leaves up to 10 feet (3 meters) long, bluish-green hue, and strongly recurved.

Leaf sheaths 2-4 feet (0.6-1.2 meters) with hooked thorns on both edges.

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Care Guide for Jelly palm

Every 2 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 38 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Jelly palm flourishes in sunny, well-drained environments, needing watering every two weeks due to its drought tolerance. Adapted to diverse soil types and typically grown outdoors, it showcases resilience against water-related challenges while maintaining its hardy nature.

Fertilize: Jelly palm thrives with balanced N-P-K fertilizers during growing seasons, shifting to high-nitrogen formulas in spring and late summer. Apply quarterly as directed. Seasonal feeding adjustments are crucial, with reduced frequency in winter. Always water thoroughly after fertilization to enhance nutrient absorption.

Pruning: Jelly palm should be pruned in early spring by removing dead or damaged fronds close to the trunk to promote health and aesthetics. Avoid cutting green fronds to maintain nutrient production. Pruning enhances air circulation and reduces pests. Use clean, sharp tools to prevent disease.

Propagation: Jelly palm propagation is best achieved by sowing in Spring. Although moderately difficult, success is signified by the appearance of seedlings and robust root systems. Maintaining adequate moisture and warmth is crucial for optimal propagation results.

Repotting: Jelly palm is a strong palm that should be repotted every 1-2 years in spring. Use a spacious pot to support its root ball, and provide well-draining soil and regular watering after repotting to enhance its growth and overall appearance.

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