Roystonea borinquena, commonly known as the Puerto Rico royal palm, is a tall, evergreen palm tree native to the Caribbean, specifically found in coastal plains, savannas, and wetlands of Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, and the Virgin Islands. It can reach up to 59 feet in height, featuring a smooth, grey-brown trunk and a crown of long, feathery leaves that can be up to 10 feet long. The inflorescences bear creamy yellow flowers followed by brownish-purple fruits, which are an important food source for local wildlife, including the white-crowned pigeon. The palm’s elegant and stately form makes it a favorite for ornamental planting in tropical and subtropical regions.

The Puerto Rico royal palm is highly valued for its majestic appearance, which includes a sleek columnar trunk topped with a graceful crown of arching fronds. It is often used in urban landscaping, along streets, in parks, and as a focal point in gardens. This palm is adaptable to a range of soil types, provided they are well-draining, and it is tolerant of both drought and air pollution once established. It thrives in full sun but can also tolerate light shade. While generally pest-resistant, it can be susceptible to lethal yellowing disease. Gardeners should be aware of its potential to reach large sizes, which may not be suitable for smaller landscapes.CC BY-SA 4.0