Table of Contents

Pindo Palm Tree

Introduction

Pindo Palm Tree – This tree is popular for its cold hardiness as well as the fact that it will grow in a variety of locations. This species is native to Brazil, Uruguay and Argentina; it typically inhabits coastal plains and woodlands. Palm type: Feather palm Major species of Coccothrinax Species Botanical Name Common Name Native Range/ Location Cold Hardiness Heat Zone Natural Soil Habitat pH Requirement Rainfall(mm) Trunk Width(years), cm. Windy, salty oceanside conditions don’t seem to be much of a challenge for the adaptable and sturdy Washingtonia. These sturdy, spiky fronds are wind and insect pollinated so fortunately they do not need to rely on a single individual plant fruiting as is the case with other implants.

Pindo Palm Tree

Palm trees, Florida right? But some areas of the state – particularly in colder temps or times during winter months- were too much for them to handle. The Pindo Palm (scientific name: Butia capitata) also known as jelly Palm is one of those that can. Cold hardy down to 5 degrees F (-15 C) and native from the east coast as far north as Carolina This palm will add a tropical look in suitable southern locations and also do well overwintered in the greenhouse.

In addition to being quite attractive, the Pindo palm can reach heights of between fifteen and twenty feet with a growth spread only slightly larger (up to 20 feet). The jelly palm is so called because of the fruit, which can be made into a wide variety of jams and jellies. Belonging to the Arecaceae family, this tree is not just exclusive to growing in Florida but can also grow exceptionally well on the coastal areas of California and other parts of United States.

How to Grow Pindo Palm Tree

Pindo Palm If you desire a palm that is very low maintenance than consider the Pindo. It is a tough plant that will tolerate down to 12 degrees. The palms are also rarely attacked by disease and need light watering, they can withstand some drought. Pindo palms are typically found in California, Texas and the southeastern US. That being said these fruit do “drop” a bit on the ripe side so consider where your planting site is as it will make a mess underfoot.

Pindo palms thrive in full or partial plant sun and are absolutely careless when it comes to soil, as long good drainage compliments well with moderate salt tolerance. Plant them away from decks, patios and other paved areas if you plan to grow bigger fruit – these fruits don’t just drop once they are mature. When planting the Pindo palms give them a minimum of 10 ft. from any concrete etc. Since they are slow growing, it is better to start with a 3-year-old nursery stock. If you have a lot of patience, maybe choose garden center juvenile plants and start it from seeds because seeding is hard and take up to one year for the sprout. If you live in USDA hardiness zones eight through eleven, then it is possible to plant your Pindo palm straight outside. A Container To Use Outside in the Warm Weather – Bring It Inside AND In Colder Climates, Planter For Indoor use and can be moved outdoors on nice days.

Be sure to plant in a sunny and well-spaced place. A mature Pindo palm can reach fifty feet in height and width, so make sure you have the space for it. They like direct sunlight, but a little afternoon partial shade in hot climates is good for them too.

Get your soil ready to accommodate the Pindo palm. They can grow in dry conditions and a variety of soil types, but they do the best with well-draining soils. Sand can be mixed in to help. When planting, remove the palm from its growing container gently and knead the roots out so they aren’t tight in a root ball then dig your plant hole about twice as deep and wide as that of the plants existing root ball. Compost will add a little organic matter and some nutrients to the soil, backfill these into your planting area (tamp down too).

Lastly, water the plant right away after planting so as to preserve the wetness of dirt. Adding mulch over the root ball will retain moisture and provide insulation against freezing temperatures.

Care Tips for Pindo Palms Tree

Pindo palm care is simple and rewarding. Originally from Brazil, this plant is robust and can survive a drought. Keep reading for some important pointers on how to care for your Pindo palm.

Keep the soil around your Pindo palm moist in its early stages. Soil: Though drought-tolerant and can handle dry conditions, it is best to keep the soil moisture for tender shrubs until they become established. You can attempt to sed a finger into the soil and see if it is moist. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Prune only as necessary to depending on overall appearance. Cutting off dead fronds, any fruit already fallen or has insect boreholes as picture 3 left top and rotted fruits. Pruning is largely cosmetic or used to sculpt the palm, it does not need regular pruning in order for it to remain healthy.
Whenever you see new Pindo palm growth fertilize with a slow release fertilizer. This is what supports the new spears and its general growth. Fertilising should not be carried out, but planting new growth can benefit from a little fertilizing every now and then.
Place your Pindo palm in the right place. It can tolerate hot, windy conditions and is commonly used in xeriscape settings such as rock gardens or for parking lot landscapes. Make sure the soil drains well and that it is appropriate for your plant.

FAQs

How fast do pindo palms grow?

The palm eventually grows up and matures in a rocky single trunk. It is a slow grower, climbing 2-4 inches the first year and reaches its mature height of 12′-14′ ft in USDA zone 8-9 with equal width growing fronds measuring six to eight feet long.

Is pindo palm fruit edible?

Eat the pindo fruit raw, off the tree (most people chew and spit out fiber with seed), make it into jams/jellies or fermenting wine ***!

Are pindo palms messy?

It defines the fruits as pindo dates, and warns that they can be messy on sidewalks or patios if you plant a tree within at least 10 feet from these paved surfaces.