Butia Palm

Common name(s): Butia Palm, Pindo Palm

Scientific name: Butia capitata

Plant family: PALMAE

Origin: South America

Description: Tall, single trunk palm. Leaves are long stemmed, stiff feather like in shape. In full sun, leaves may show anywhere from gray or blue-gray in color. Leaves have an arching shape from central base of trunk. Fruit are orange, date-like with long showy clusters from top center of trunk. Will grow up to 15 – 25 feet tall. Slow growing. 

Growing Conditions: New plants should be watered, soaked and weekly until established. Be sure no air pockets in soil or plant may die. Butia palms are drought tolerant once established and should not need extra watering. Grows in well drained soil, mixed sand. Zone: 8 – 10.

Wildlife: Birds and other wildlife will eat fruit. Insects likely pollinators.

Relation to Nehrling Gardens:

Location in Gardens: C8

Additional Information: Palms do well with an annual feeding of: 16-4-8 or 8-4-12, in March, June and October. Look for fertilizer that is slow release and with minor elements. As the palm grows, some fronds will turn brown. These are old palms and should be removed, only if dark brown. Don’t over trim any palm, as the green leaves produce food for the plant and keep it healthy. The fruit of this palm is edible and you can make jams and jellies with them. Wind resistant for most part. Use in the landscape as a focal point in the front yard with native grasses and flowers to attract insects and butterflies.

Sponsored by: Orlando Garden Club – Tangerine Circle

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