Palmyra Palm
Borassus flabellifer
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Pl. 1E88 — Borassus flabellifer
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IOverview
Overview
The Palmyra Palm (Borassus flabellifer) is a large, fan-palm native to the tropical regions of Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Islands, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. Known for its edible fruits, this palm thrives in full sun with a preference for dry to moist conditions and various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). It can grow up to 20 meters tall and is valued not only for its fruit but also for its ornamental appeal. One distinctive feature of the Palmyra Palm is its large, fan-shaped leaves that can span several meters in width, making it a striking addition to landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Palmyra Palm?
The Palmyra Palm (Borassus flabellifer) is a large, fan-palm native to the tropical regions of Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Islands, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Palmyra Palm thrives in full sun and prefers a variety of soil types—light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but can also tolerate moist conditions. The plant grows best in hardiness zones 10-12, making it suitable for tropical climates. Palmyra Palm requires little water once established and can be propagated through seeds or division of the crown. Its edible fruits are a notable feature, adding value beyond its ornamental appeal.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
10-12
Mature size
20.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Palmyra Palm for the first time
8steps
Start with a young Palmyra Palm to ensure success in your garden.
- 1
What you'll need
A young Palmyra Palm, a large pot or planting area, and basic gardening tools.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant during the warmer months when temperatures are above 20°C (68°F).
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a mix of light sand, medium loam, and heavy clay. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant the young palm to its permanent location or pot, ensuring it is at the same depth as in its nursery container.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly but avoid overwatering. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering, especially during dry periods. Fertilize once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead fronds to maintain the palm's health and appearance. Harvest fruits when they turn yellow and are soft.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in poorly draining soil, not providing enough sunlight, and neglecting regular pruning.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:fruits
Edible uses: Oil, Drink, Salt, Sweetener
Other uses:Weaving materialCraftingFire starterContainersFencingFiberoiltextilesLumber
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
9 native · 6 introduced
Distribution
9 native · 6 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 9 native· 6 introduced
Asia9 regions
native (7)BangladeshCambodiaIndiaLaosMyanmarSri LankaVietnam
introduced (2)ChinaThailand
Africa1 region
introduced (1)Mauritania
Broader regions
native:Jawa, Lesser Sunda Is.
introduced:Malaya, Socotra, Sulawesi
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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