Pindo Palm Care: Tips For Growing Pindo Palm Trees
When you think of Florida, you immediately think of palm trees. However, not all palm species do well in colder regions of the state where temperatures may dip down to 5 degrees F. (-15 C.). Pindo palm trees (Butia capitata) are one type of palm that will tolerate cooler temperatures and can even be found along the east coast up to the Carolinas. Let's find out how to care for a pindo palm.
Hardy Pindo Info
Pindo palms, also known as jelly palms, grow slowly to a mature height of 15 to 20 feet (4.5-6 m.) with a trunk diameter of 1 to 1.5 feet (31-46 cm.). Flowers can be red, white, or yellow and occur in groups of two male flowers and one female flower. The fruit of this graceful palm is light orange to brownish red and can be used to make jelly. The seeds can even be roasted for a coffee substitute. Pindo palms are often used as a specimen tree and draw a variety of wildlife with their sweet fruit.
Growing Pindo Palm Trees
Pindo palms will grow in full sun or partial shade and any type of soil as long as it is moderately salt tolerant and has good drainage. Falling fruit can make a mess, so it is recommended that pindo palms be planted at least 10 feet (3 m.) from decks, patios, or paved surfaces. Since these trees grow so slowly, it is best to buy at least a three year old nursery stock tree unless you are extremely patient.
How to Care of a Pindo Palm
Pindo palm care is not difficult at all. There are no diseases or insect problems with this tree, other than the odd micro-nutrient deficiency. Regular fertilization will help keep the pindo palm looking its best. Pindo palms are able to survive hot and windy conditions, but it is always best to keep the soil adequately moist. This Brazil native requires some pruning of dead fronds to keep its appearance tidy.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our DIY eBook "Bring Your Garden Indoors: 13 DIY Projects For Fall And Winter".
-
Bold & Beautiful Festive Bloomers: 6 Christmas Flowering Plants For A Big Holiday Buzz
‘Tis the season for celebration and easy living, so make sure your plants are up to it. These dynamic Christmas flowering plants will help you see out the season in style
By Mary Ellen Ellis
-
9 Thoughtful Stocking Stuffers For Gardeners They'll Actually Use – Starting At $10
Stocking stuffers often end up an after-thought, but not these! Explore expert-curated stocking stuffers for gardeners that they'll use for years to come.
By Laura Walters
-
Common Pindo Palm Pests – How To Control Pests Of Pindo Palm Trees
Pindo palms are generally very healthy trees if planted appropriately. However, there are a few insect pests of pindo palm trees, including the palm leaf skeletonizer and scale insect. For more information on pindo palm pest problems, click here.
By Teo Spengler
-
Is My Pindo Palm Dead – Treating Pindo Palm Freeze Damage
Can I save my frosted pindo palm? Is my pindo palm dead? Even this tough palm can be damaged by a sudden cold snap. Click here and learn how to assess pindo palm frost damage. There’s a good chance the plant will rebound when temperatures rise in spring.
By Mary H. Dyer
-
Pindo Palm Cold Hardiness – Can Pindo Palms Grow Outdoors In Winter
You may live where winter means sub-freezing temperatures and still be able grow pindo palm trees. It's possible for them to survive in your part of the world, but only with proper winter protection. For pindo palms, it's an ongoing process, and this article can help.
By Gardening Know How
-
Pindo Palm Disease Info: Learn How To Treat Sick Pindo Palm Trees
Pindo palm trees suffer from nutritional deficiencies but fungus or occasional bacteria are usually the causes of diseased pindo palm plants. Click this article for more information on pindo palm disease and what to do for prevention and control.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
Pindo Palm Issues: Common Problems With Pindo Palms
Even though they tolerate cold, you might still have issues with a pindo palm. Problems with pindo palms may be insect or disease related - or both. The following article contains information on common pindo palm problems and how to manage pindo palm issues.
By Amy Grant
-
Pindo Palm Fertilizer Needs – Learn How To Feed A Pindo Palm Tree
Pindo palms are popular trees, especially in public landscapes. But homeowners and gardeners may find themselves wondering: how much fertilizer does a pindo palm need? Click here to learn more about pindo palm fertilizer needs and how to feed a pindo palm tree.
By Liz Baessler
-
Pindo Palm Propagation: Learn About Propagating Pindo Palms
Germinating pindo palm seeds requires some patience and know how to get the process correct and achieve a baby palm. The following article outlines how to propagate a pindo palm with the steps needed for success. Click here to learn more.
By Bonnie L. Grant
-
Jelly Palm Fruit Uses – Is The Fruit Of The Pindo Palm Edible
Grown both as an ornamental and for its tolerance to the hot, dry climate, pindo palm (jelly palm) trees bear fruit too, but the question is, "Can you eat pindo palm fruit?" Click this article to find out if the fruit of the pindo palm is edible and jelly palm fruit uses, if any.
By Amy Grant