the genus
ALLAGOPTERA

From the Greek “allagos”, alternate, and “pteron”, feather, in reference to the irregularly arranged pinnae of the leaf.

Subfamily: Arecoideae
Tribe: Cocoeae
Subtribe: Butiinae

The subtribe includes 9 related genera such as Butia, Cocos, Jubaea, Parajubaea, Syagrus, etc.

This is a small genus of dwarf pinnate-leafed palms native to southern Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina. The low stems of Allagoptera adapt these plants to life in dry brush or coastal sand dunes and are short or subterranean and sometimes forked, with the growing points often set far down, even below the bases of the stems. The pinnate leaves have glaucous undersides created by a heavy, waxy substance that helps the trees survive in their “cerrado” (thorn forest) or seaside habitats, where they may experience considerable salt spray. Their flowers appear on simple spikes guarded by a flattened spathe, which carries both female and male flowers together at the base and male flowers alone at the top, suggesting the bloom of an arum. Allagoptera is reasonably common in its native habitat, but remains unusual in gardens. The best known of the species, the Seashore Palm (Allagoptera arenaria), is among the most beautiful palms suited to coastal conditions.

Culture: Allagoptera accepts sun or light shade and will tolerate drought and exposure to salt and wind. Good drainage is essential.

Allagoptera arenaria
Common Name: Seashore Palm
Cold Tolerance: 18F (-8C) USDA Zones: 9-11

Typical Height: 4'-8' Growth Rate: Slow
Habit: Clustering (with time); each stem bearing 16–20 leaves

Status: In Stock
Available Range: 7–45gal. B&B 2’–6’OA

*Allagoptera arenaria has been known to survive temperatures as low as 14F and will grow down into salt water.