Bring a touch of the tropics to your home or garden with the Coco Palm, scientifically known as Butia capitata, also called the Jelly Palm or Pindo Palm. This slow-growing palm produces clusters of golden-orange fruits known for their sweet, tangy flavor, often used in homemade jellies, wines, and desserts.
Native to South America, this resilient and ornamental palm thrives in subtropical to warm temperate climates, making it one of the most cold-tolerant palms available. Its feathery, arching blue-green fronds and compact growth habit make it perfect for landscapes, patios, or as an indoor houseplant.
Features
- Produces sweet, edible yellow-orange fruits perfect for jellies and preserves.
- Attractive feathery fronds and elegant tropical appearance.
- Cold-hardy compared to other palm species.
- Excellent as a patio, landscape, or indoor ornamental plant.
- Non-GMO, naturally grown palm seeds.
Specifications
- Scientific Name: Butia capitata
- Common Names: Jelly Palm, Pindo Palm, Coco Palm
- Family: Arecaceae
- Plant Type: Evergreen fruiting palm tree
- Mature Height: 10–20 ft outdoors; smaller in containers
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Type: Well-drained sandy or loamy soil
- Soil pH: 6.0–7.5
- Water Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once mature
- Temperature Range: 20°F to 100°F (–6°C to 38°C)
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 8–11
- Germination Time: 4–10 weeks; pre-soaking recommended
- Fruit Type: Edible orange-yellow drupes
- GMO Status: Non-GMO
Planting Guide
- Soak seeds in warm water for 48–72 hours before planting.
- Sow seeds 1 inch deep in moist, well-draining soil mix.
- Maintain warm soil (75–85°F / 24–29°C) for germination.
- Keep soil lightly moist, avoiding overwatering.
- Germination may take 1–3 months; patience is key.
- Once seedlings emerge, transplant into larger pots or outdoors when warm.
- Choose a sunny location with protection from frost.
Care Tips
- Water regularly while young; reduce frequency as plant matures.
- Use a balanced palm fertilizer during growing season.
- Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture.
- Ideal for coastal gardens – tolerates salt and wind.
- Can be grown indoors with bright sunlight and good drainage.