Licuri palm (Syagrus coronata)
The Licuri palm (Syagrus coronata) is a slow-growing Brazilian native, offering edible fruit and tolerance for dry, rocky soils.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
The Licuri palm (Syagrus coronata) is a highly valued, slow-growing specimen palm native to the dry scrublands of Northeastern Brazil. Its aesthetic appeal lies in its smooth, gray trunk topped by a crown of slightly arched, large compound leaves, resulting in a tidy, columnar silhouette ideal for accent planting. Gardeners appreciate this species for its resilience, as Syagrus coronata demonstrates remarkable tolerance for soils that challenge many other palms.
This medium-sized palm reaches mature heights between 20 to 30 feet, making it significantly smaller than many of its tropical relatives. Beyond its ornamental value, the Licuri palm produces edible fruits, contributing to both local cuisine and wildlife sustenance. Its ability to handle poorer soils while requiring only medium water makes the Syagrus coronata a robust choice for xeriscaping or difficult planting sites within its hardiness range.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Arecaceae
- Plant Type: Palm or Cycad
- Native Range: Northeastern Brazil
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 9-12
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 20-30 ft
- Spread: 10-15 ft
- Bloom Time: Seasonal bloomer
- Bloom Description: Yellow
- Sun Exposure: Full sun
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
For optimal growth, plant the Licuri palm in full sun. Although it prefers evenly moist, sandy, and well-drained soils, it exhibits considerable adaptability. When establishing, prioritize deep watering to encourage robust root development in its new location.
This palm thrives in a variety of mediums, including fertile clay soils and even dry, rocky substrates, making it excellent for challenging topography. However, exercise caution near coastal areas, as Syagrus coronata is notably intolerant of salty spray. Once established, maintain a medium watering schedule, allowing the soil to dry slightly between deep soakings. Maintenance is generally low, focusing primarily on removing the old, persistent leaf petioles if a cleaner look is desired, though these contribute to the distinctive spiral pattern on the trunk.
Landscape Uses
The modest ultimate size and slow growth rate of the Licuri palm make it an exceptional choice for integration into smaller home gardens or strategic placement near patios and entryways where overhead clearance is a consideration. It performs beautifully as a specimen plant, demanding attention without overwhelming the surrounding landscape design.
Due to the need for full sun and tolerance for drier conditions, pair the Licuri palm with other drought-tolerant species native to similar climates or Mediterranean-style plantings. Consider using gravel mulch or low-growing, tough succulents at its base to enhance the arid, architectural appeal it brings to borders and focal points.
Standout Features
Fruit Qualities
- Edible
Noteworthy Characteristics
Syagrus coronata, commonly called licuri palm or ouricury palm, is a small palm native to eastern Brazil. This slow-growing, single-stemmed palm will reach up to 30’ tall with a 15’ spread. The old, dried leaf petioles persist on the trunk and create a spiral pattern, adding strong architectural interest throughout the year.
Tolerances
- Drought
- Clay Soil
- Dry Soil
- Shallow-Rocky Soil
Potential Problems
The Licuri palm is generally known for having few pest or disease issues of note. The primary concern reported for Syagrus coronata is susceptibility to toganoderma butt rot. Gardeners should ensure excellent soil drainage and avoid unnecessary wounding of the trunk near the base, as this can create entry points for pathogens. Regular inspection of the trunk base during routine pruning is recommended for early detection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Licuri palm suitable for?
The Licuri palm (Syagrus coronata) is hardy in USDA Zones 9 through 12, tolerating mild winter temperatures.
How large does Syagrus coronata grow?
This palm typically matures to a height between 20 to 30 feet, with a spread ranging from 10 to 15 feet, making it a manageable specimen for many properties.
What sun exposure does Licuri palm need?
The Syagrus coronata requires full sun exposure to develop a dense crown and maintain robust growth.
When does Licuri palm bloom?
This species exhibits seasonal blooming, producing clusters of attractive yellow flowers.
Conclusion
The Licuri palm offers exceptional value to subtropical gardeners seeking a resilient, medium-sized accent palm that handles challenging soil conditions, including clay and dry, rocky sites. Incorporating Syagrus coronata provides year-round structure alongside the bonus of edible fruit resources. Before planting, confirm your location falls within USDA Zones 9-12 and prepare soil with good drainage to ensure the continued health of your new specimen.
Companion Planting
Selecting companions for the Licuri palm should focus on species that thrive in full sun and share a tolerance for drier soils once established. Pairing it with low-growing, tough natives from similar regions can create a cohesive, water-wise landscape. Good choices include various agaves or yuccas that provide spiky textural contrast at the base of the palm’s smooth trunk.
When planting larger companions, ensure they do not shade the young Syagrus coronata, as it needs uncompromising sun exposure. For a visually rich tapestry, consider using colorful, low-mounding ornamental grasses that complement the verticality of the palm without competing for root space near the surface.
Wildlife Benefits
The fruits of the Licuri palm are crucial to local ecosystems in its native Brazil, most notably serving as a primary food source for the endangered Lear’s macaw. For home gardeners, any fruit production will attract various local avian species looking for nutritious snacks. Even when not fruiting, the dense crown provides excellent protective cover and roosting spots for small birds away from predators.
