Palms For California

Pronunciation: ken-tee-OP-siss peer-ih-FORM-iss

Common Name: none

Kentiopsis pyriformis is the last of the Kentiopsis to find its way into California, but has been rapidly outpacing two other species (Kentiopsis piersoniorum and Kentiopsis magnifica) in popularity due partly to its recent availability, and to its rapid rate (relatively, that is). At a glance, with its recurved leaves, it appears similar to Kentiopsis piersoniorum, but it is a beefier plant with less color. No mature palms exist (yet) in California (2015).

Appearance and Biology Habit: solitary with a crown of 4-6 feather leaves Height: 30' estimate Trunk: single; 8" in diameter; ringed Crownshaft: 2' tall; coppery Spread: 10'-12' Leaf Description: pinnate; mildly to markedly recurved (flatter in younger palms); 6'-7' long; medium green Petiole/Leaf bases: 1'-2' (longer sometimes in juvenile palms); tubular with flattish dorsal surface; unarmed; un-split Reproduction: monoecious Inflorescence: often multiple; branched; 18" long; horizontal Fruit: oblong; purplish-pink; 3/4" long

Horticultural Characteristics Minimum Temp: 32F Drought Tolerance: moderate Dry Heat Tolerance: moderate Cool Tolerance: low to moderate Wind Tolerance: low Salt Tolerance: unknown Growth Rate: slow Soil Preference: adaptable Light Requirement: filtered to partial sun Human Hazards: none Disease or Horticultural Problems: none Transplants?: unknown Indoor?: unknown Availability: rare