Cuban Royal Palm

(Roystonea regia)

Cuban Royal Palm (Roystonea regia)

/

return to results
Previous Plant Next Plant

/

Roystonea regia image
scroll forward scroll backward
scroll forward scroll backward
Estimated Native Range
Species Map Help

Summary

Roystonea regia, commonly known as Cuban Royal Palm, is an evergreen tree native to the moist forests, savannas, and scrublands of the Caribbean, Florida, Mexico and Central America. It can reach impressive heights of 20–30 meters (66–98 ft) with a stem diameter of about 47 centimeters (19 in). The Cuban Royal Palm is characterized by a stout, very smooth, and grey-white trunk with a swollen base and a distinctive green crownshaft. Its large, pinnate leaves create a graceful canopy. The white flowers with pinkish anthers are borne in large panicles and are followed by fruits that transition from green to red and finally to purplish-black as they mature, attracting a variety of birds and bats.

The Cuban Royal Palm is highly valued for its majestic appearance and is widely used as a focal point in tropical and subtropical landscapes, including avenues, parks, and large gardens. It is also planted for its fast growth rate and its ability to create a dramatic vertical element in the landscape. This palm requires full sun and can tolerate a range of soil types, provided they have good drainage. It is relatively low maintenance but does require adequate water, especially in well-drained soils. While generally pest-free, it can occasionally suffer from palm weevils and leaf spot diseases.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 66-98 feet
  • Width: 18-23 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: N/A
  • Flowering Season: Winter, Spring, Summer
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun
  • Water: Medium
  • Drainage: Medium, Fast

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Low Maintenance

Natural Habitat

Moist forests, savannas, and scrublands

Other Names

Common Names: Royal Palm, , Florida Royal Palm, Königspalme, Kubanische Königspalme, Chaguaramo, Yagua, Palma Criolla, Palma Real, Palmier Royal

Scientific Names: , Roystonea regia, Roystonea elata, Oreodoxa regia, Roystonea jenmanii, Euterpe jenmanii, Roystonea floridana, Roystonea regia var. hondurensis, Euterpe ventricosa, Oenocarpus regius

GBIF Accepted Name: Roystonea regia (Kunth) O.F.Cook