Cultivation Tips

Give this palm bright light to full sun once it is established—though very young plants benefit from some filtered light until their stems begin to lengthen and strengthen. Plant in an exceptionally well-draining substrate, ideally sandy or gritty, with low organic load to mimic its native coastal sand conditions; avoid heavy, water-retentive soils. Water moderately and allow the soil to dry somewhat between watering cycles—while it tolerates dryness better than many palms once established, it’s vulnerable to root-rot in poorly drained conditions. Protect from temperatures below about 30 °F (-1 °C) and in cooler climates provide frost-protection, as its cold tolerance is limited. Use a light palm-specific fertilizer spaced out (e.g., two or three times a year) rather than heavy feeding, since in its natural habitat nutrient levels are very low.