Palms For California

Pronunciation: press-TOE-ee-uh ah-kew-min-AH-tuh var. mon-TAH-nuh

Common Name:

Prestoea acuminata var. montana is the only Prestoea that seems to be hardy enough to grow well in California. This is the non-suckering form of this species. It seems highly unlikely this is indeed the same species as the suckering form as they look so unalike, not to mention they are a world apart in terms of cultivational needs. Takes the definition of species over the top. Mature, fruiting plants in California. Makes a great tropical looking specimen palm for the right location.

Appearance and Biology Habit: solitary with a head 10-12 leaves Height: 25' Trunk: single; closely ringed clean trunk; 10" in diameter Crownshaft: 2' long; olive green; slightly bulbous at base and barely thicker than trunk Spread: 12'-16' Leaf Description: pinnate; deep green; upright to 45 degrees; 8' long Petiole/Leaf bases: 8"-12", thick, green Reproduction: monoecious Inflorescence: immediately below crownshaft protruding stiffly laterally, though spathe points out a 45 degree angle before opening; about 12"-18" long and multi-branched in all directions; white flowers Fruit: 1/2"; spherical; green to black when ripe Seed:

Horticultural Characteristics Minimum Temp: 30F Drought Tolerance: moderate Dry Heat Tolerance: moderate Wind Tolerance: poor Salt Tolerance: unknown Growth Rate: slow Soil Preference: adaptable Light Requirement: full to partial sun Human Hazards: none Disease or Horticultural Problems: none Transplants?: unknown Indoor?: too light needy Availability: rare but often available at specialty palm nurseries