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Butia capitata

jelly palm

An elegant palm with long, arching, grey-green leaves. Tolerant of cold and wet conditions it can make a great specimen plant in mild areas, but will require some protection in areas with very harsh winter weather

Other common names
pindo palm
Synonyms
Butia bonnetii

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Size
Ultimate height
4–8 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
1.5–2.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Chalk
Clay
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

East–facing or South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Arecaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

A genus of relatively hardy palms, native to South America, with feathery, grey-green drooping foliage, some grown as stemless plants and others as small trees. Many species of Butia produce edible fruits which can be made into jellies and alcoholic drinks

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Brazil to Uruguay

How to grow

Cultivation

If growing in pots, use a peat-free, loam-based compost and position in full sun. Water freely in summer and apply a balanced liquid feed weekly. In very cold areas the pots should be moved to a sheltered corner or greennhouse over winter. In milder areas plant into the ground in spring, selecting a sheltered site where the ground does not become waterlogged. See palm cultivation outdoors for further information

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed at 25°C in spring

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Architectural
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Patio and container plants
  • Sub-tropical
  • Bedding
  • Conservatory and greenhouse
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

May be susceptible to red spider mite and scale insects if grown under glass

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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