Mule Palm Tree, scientific name Butiagrus nabonnandii, is a hybrid between Pindo Palm and Queen Palm. This palm is rare and expensive. It can tolerate cold, wind, and drought. A very durable palm that can be grown in the USDA Zone 9a.

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Mule Palm Tree Info

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Scientific name: Butiagrus nabonnandii

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Common names: The Mule Palm Tree is also known as Butia Queen Cross, Pindo Palm, Butia x Syagrus.

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Family: Arecaceae

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Origin: It is native to Florida.

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Appearance: It has a heavy gray trunk covered with old leaf bases. Dark green arching leaves emerge right from the trunk. Leaves are pinnate, or feather-like, about 5-10 ft long, with 80-150 leaflets.

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Flowers/Fruits: It produces small pink flowers that grow on branched inflorescence.

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Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast. This palm can grow up to tall 20 – 30 ft and 5- 10 ft wide.

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Outdoor/Indoor Use: Both.

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Cold Tolerance: This palm is cold-hardy and can tolerate cold down to 20 F. When mature enough this palm is known to withstand cold even below 20F. Great for USDA Zones 9a (20 to 25 F) to 11 (above 40 F).

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Light Req: Partial shade to Full sun.

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Water Req: Moderate. Likes moist well-drained soil but will tolerate drought for a short period of time when mature enough.

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

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Propagation: Propagated by seeds.

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Top 10 Benefits Of The Mule Palm Tree

The Mule Palm, known scientifically as X Butiagrus nabonnandii, offers a multitude of benefits:

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1. Adaptability: The Mule Palm can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, making it an easy-to-maintain plant.

2. Temperature Tolerance: It can withstand both high temperatures and freezes, making it suitable for a variety of climates.

3. Drought Resistance: Once established, it requires minimal water, making it a water-efficient plant.

4. Aesthetic Appeal: Its unique combination of feathery palm and pinnate leaves adds to the landscaping beauty.

5. Hardiness: Mule Palms are known for their resistance against pests and diseases.

6. Ease of Propagation: Mule palms are hybrid plants that can be propagated with ease.

7. Fruit Production: It produces fruit that adds to its ornamental value and attracts wildlife.

8. Environmental Impact: It helps in CO2 absorption, contributing to a healthier environment.

9. Fast Growth: Compared to other palm varieties, Mule Palms mature relatively fast.

10. Salt Tolerance: It's suitable for coastal areas, as it can tolerate salty air and soil conditions.