| Climate Zone | 9b |
| Min Temp | 25 to 30 F / -4 to -1 C |
| Leaf Type | Pinnate |
| Height | 25 Ft / 7.6 M |
| Growth Rate | Moderate to Fast |
| Conservation Status |
Vulnerable
|
Adonidia merrillii
Christmas Palm
Sizes
- 1 gallon
About Adonidia merrillii
This species is a small to medium-sized solitary palm. It has a slender, smooth, grey trunk that is ringed with old leaf scars. The leaves are pinnate and about 6-8 feet long, with numerous bright green leaflets arranged in a feather-like manner. One of the most distinctive features of the Christmas palm is its beautiful inflorescence, which emerges from a green, waxy sheath at the top of the tree. The inflorescence is a branching cluster of small, white to cream-colored flowers that are followed by small, bright red to orange fruits. It is widely cultivated in other tropical regions for its attractive appearance and ease of care.
Cultivation Tips
This palm grows at a moderate rate and needs only some basic care to thrive. The adonidia palm grows best when given full sun for at least 4 to 6 hours every day. The palm also appreciates some shade when it's young, as strong sun all day long can scorch its tender new growth. The adonidia palm is tolerant of any type of soil, provided it's well-drained. Use a slow-release fertilizer formula designed specifically for palms that has an N-P-K-Mg ratio of 8-2-12-4. Ensure it also contains micronutrients such as iron, manganese and boron, and apply it at a rate of 1.5 pounds per 100 square feet of the tree's canopy.
