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BRAHEA EDULIS HBK Mart - Guadalupe Palm, Guadalupe Fan Palm |
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An evergreen tree originating from China. Slow growing, but reaching heights of 35'. It has attractive pinnate leaves of a shining leather texture. The fruit, when ripe, has dark red-brown and rough skin, is 1 to 1 1/2 " long and grows in bunches. Under the brittle skin, the flesh is pearly white, sweet and jelly-like, though firm. It is eaten fresh or sun-dried (Litchi Nuts) or canned in syrup. It is a good source of vitamin C and phosphorous. Propagated by airlayering or grafting.
Related Species: Mexican Blue Palm (Brahea armata), Palma Dulce (B. dulcis).
Origin: Guadalupe palms are native to Guadalupe Island off the west coast of Mexico but are widely grown in many parts of the world.
Adaptation: Guadalupe palms thrive in dry, sunny climates, and do not like humid tropical conditions. The palms grow well in many parts of California and are hardy to at least 20 degrees F (USDA Zones 9-10A). They can be grown for some time as container specimens.
DESCRIPTION
Growth Habits: The palms are robust and slow-growing to 30 feet with a canopy of several dozen leaves. The naked, elephant-hide trunk is ringed with leaf scars. Their slow growth, moderate size and clean habits make them attractive landscape specimens.
Foliage: The fan-shaped, costapalmate, stiffly folded leaves are 3-6 feet long and 3-4 feet wide, dividing about halfway into 70-80 segments that split deeply at the tips. They are green on both sides and sometimes contain teeth on the margins of the petioles. The trees tend to be self-cleaning.
Flowers: Large clusters of yellow, bisexual flowers are borne on 4-5 foot inflorescences that hang down from the leaves. Pollination is by wind and insects.
Fruit: Plump, black fruits, about one inch in diameter are borne in great sprays on the trees. The pleasant, sweet taste is somewhat like dates.
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