Difference between revisions of "Acrocomia aculeata"
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This palm can be very fast growing and surprisingly cold hardy. However, because this species is so variable, it's growth characteristics can be variable as well. It is most common in open sunny areas, and is fairly drought tolerant. However, it makes a much more attractive specimen with adequate water. It is tolerant of many soils and conditions, but will not handle shady locations. One must be careful when planting such a vicious palm. As a juvenile, with its sharp and plentiful spines, it can present a hazard to children and pets, not to mention, the well caring gardener. | This palm can be very fast growing and surprisingly cold hardy. However, because this species is so variable, it's growth characteristics can be variable as well. It is most common in open sunny areas, and is fairly drought tolerant. However, it makes a much more attractive specimen with adequate water. It is tolerant of many soils and conditions, but will not handle shady locations. One must be careful when planting such a vicious palm. As a juvenile, with its sharp and plentiful spines, it can present a hazard to children and pets, not to mention, the well caring gardener. | ||
| − | [[Image:CoyolSeeds.jpg]] | + | [[Image:CoyolSeeds.jpg|thumb]] |
==Curiousities== | ==Curiousities== | ||
Revision as of 18:59, 16 June 2007
Habitat and Distribution
A. aculeata is an extremely widespread palm from tropical America. It's range begins in eastern Brazil, and extends north through Venezuela, Colombia, and Central America. Cuba and the other Carribean Islands also provide habitat for this variable species. It has been speculated that such a broad range was assisted by the migrations and cultures of the prodigous prehistoric peoples of this region.
Description
These impressive palms bear a superficial resemblance to the majestic Royal palm from a distance, due to it's size and attractive form. However on closer inspection, the copious spines on most forms, along with the plumose character of the leaves, give it's true identity away to even the relatively uninformed.
Culture
This palm can be very fast growing and surprisingly cold hardy. However, because this species is so variable, it's growth characteristics can be variable as well. It is most common in open sunny areas, and is fairly drought tolerant. However, it makes a much more attractive specimen with adequate water. It is tolerant of many soils and conditions, but will not handle shady locations. One must be careful when planting such a vicious palm. As a juvenile, with its sharp and plentiful spines, it can present a hazard to children and pets, not to mention, the well caring gardener.
Curiousities
At one time, due to the previously mentioned variabilty, there were 2 dozen described species. Today, according to who you recognize, there are as few as two. The uses of all parts of this palm would take several paragraphs to list, and would provide interesting reading.
Common names
Coyol [es][Costa Rica] Macaw Palm [en]