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Coyure  Palm Tree

rare coyure palmtree in the wild

The Coyure Palm Tree, scientific name Aiphanes horrida, is an exotic and rare palm tree with a gray trunk, that is covered in black spines. Coyure Palm is truly a collectors palm that will be a great addition to any landscape. This palm doesn’t do well indoors and should be grown outside.

Coyure Palm Tree Info

Scientific name: Aiphanes horrida is also known as Cocos rura, Mararay, Corozo, Macahuite, Corozo del Orinoco, Corozo anchame, Mararava, Cubarro, Chonta, Chascaraza, Corozo chiquito, Corozo colorado, Pujamo, and Gualte.

Common names: The Coyure Palm Tree is also known as Ruffle Palm Tree, Aculeata Palm.

Family: Arecaceae

Origin: It is native to South America.

Appearance: It has a single gray trunk covered with large black spines.  The trunk is topped with a very attractive crown of light green fronds. Leaves are pinnate, or feather-like, with rows of leaflets, that emerge on either side of the axis. Leaflets are ruffled, broad at the tips, and grow on pale spiny stalks.

Flowers/Fruits: In the summer, it produces small yellow flowers. Male and female flowers are born on the same inflorescence. Flowers are followed by round bright red with orange endocarp fruits that are about 1/2in. in diameter with a single seed inside.

Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate.

Outdoor/Indoor Use: Outdoor.

Cold Tolerance: This palm is not cold hardy and can withstand cold only down to 30F. Needs to be protected from cold snaps. Great for growing in USDA Zones 10a (30 to 35 F) to 11 (above 40 F).

Light Req: Partial shade to Full sun.

Water Req: High. It grows best in consistently moist well-drained soil. Do not let the soil dry out between waterings.

Maintenance: Moderate. To prevent nutritional deficiency, apply good quality palm fertilizer that has continuous release formula twice a year during the growing season.

Propagation: Propagated by seeds.

Top Benefits Of The Coyure Palm Tree

The Coyure Palm Tree, a native of Central and South America, offers numerous benefits, making it an invaluable resource in these regions.

 

  1. Edible Fruits: The fruits of the Coyure Palm are small, edible, and rich in nutrients.

  2. Timber Source: Its durable wood can be utilized for construction and crafting furniture.

  3. Animal Feed: The fruit and leaves serve as a reliable source of feed for livestock and wildlife.

  4. Medicinal Uses: Traditional medicine uses the tree's parts for treating ailments like stomach issues and respiratory disorders.

  5. Landscaping: Due to its aesthetic appeal, it's used in landscaping and to enhance property values.

  6. Erosion Control: Planting Coyure Palms can help control soil erosion in hilly areas.

  7. Climate Resilience: This palm species thrives in a variety of weather conditions, making it a climate-resilient plant.

  8. Carbon Sequestration: Like other trees, it plays a role in reducing carbon in the atmosphere, contributing to climate change mitigation.

  9. Cultural Significance: Its cultural importance is notable in areas where it grows, often featuring in local rituals and customs.

  10. Sustainable Income: Harvesting and selling the fruit, leaves, and wood can provide a sustainable income source for local communities.

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