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Butia capitata
Butia capitata
Butia capitata
Butia capitata

Butia capitata

TAXONOMY

FamilyArecaceae
GenusButia
Zone9

ABOUT

Butia capitata, commonly known as the Pindo Palm or Jelly Palm, is a species of palm native to South America, particularly Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. It is a hardy palm that can tolerate some frost and is known for its attractive, arching fronds and edible fruit. The plant prefers seasonally dry tropical climates and can grow up to 6 meters tall.

ALSO KNOWN AS

Jelly Palm
Butia bonnetii
Butia capitata var. rubra
Butia leiospatha
Calappa capitata
Calappa leiospatha
Cocos capitata
Cocos leiospatha
Cocos leiospatha var. angustifolia
Syagrus capitata

OVERVIEW

WaterDry
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (8 Hours)
Temperature25° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar

DETAILS

Care Instructions
To care for Butia capitata, provide it with bright, direct sunlight and moderate temperatures. It prefers soil that dries out almost completely between waterings. Maintain moderate humidity levels and ensure the plant is protected from extreme cold. Regular pruning of dead fronds is recommended to keep the plant healthy.
Soil
Butia capitata thrives in well-draining loam soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers soil that is not too heavy. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, and avoid waterlogged conditions.
Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically in spring and summer, to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
Repotting
Repot Butia capitata when it outgrows its current container, typically every 2-3 years. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage, and use a well-draining soil mix. Handle the roots carefully to avoid damage during repotting.
Propagation
Propagate Butia capitata by seeds. Collect seeds from ripe fruit and clean them thoroughly. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them warm and moist. Germination can take several months, so be patient.
Pruning
Prune dead or damaged fronds regularly to maintain the plant's appearance and health. Use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts, and avoid cutting too close to the trunk to prevent damage.
Toxicity
Butia capitata is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. The fruit is edible and can be used to make jelly, hence the common name Jelly Palm.
Additional
Butia capitata is relatively low-maintenance once established and can tolerate some drought. It is a popular choice for landscaping in tropical and subtropical regions due to its attractive appearance and hardiness.
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How To Grow Butia capitata | EarthOne