brahea
( bra - HEH - uh )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of palms, commonly called Hesper Palms, needs full sun and little or no water once established. They are native to Mexico and are considered to be a type of 'Fan Palm', as all species have large, fan-shaped leaves. These palms are considered slow-growers, putting on about 6 inches of growth each year.
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Brahea Species and Varietals
The genus Brahea is a member of the plant family Arecaceae and includes just 11 species. The generic name honors Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe. The best growing zones for Brahea vary depending on the species. For more information, see the descriptions below. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Brahea aculeata Native to the states of Sinaloa, Durango, and Sonora in Mexico, these fan palms are considered threatened with extinction due to climate change and habitat loss. Individual trees reach between 6 and 29 feet tall at maturity, with serrated leaf stalks attaching to the trunk as it grows upward. Flowers are small and cream-colored to white, blooming in large inflorescences towards the top of the tree in late wintertime. |
Brahea armata (Mexican Blue Palm, Blue Hesper Palm) This species is best in zones 12-17, 19-24 and H1. Mexican Blue Palms are endemic to Baja California, Mexico. These trees are hardy down to 18 degrees Fahrenheit and reach 20-40 feet tall and 25 feet wide at maturity. Leaves are silvery-blue, almost white. Flowers are cream colored and somewhat conspicuous. This species handles heat and wind well. |
Brahea dulcis (Sweet Hesper Palm, Apak Palm) These trees are native to dry woodland areas in Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras. They produce glossy green to blue-green fronds and edible sweet fruits that are commonly consumed in their native range. These trees can reach 25 feet tall when mature. Flowers are inconspicuous and white to cream-colored, blooming in late winter to early springtime. |
Brahea edulis (Guadalupe Palm, Palma de Guadalupe) This species grows well in zones 12-24 and is hardy to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit. It is native to the Guadalupe Island off the coast of Baja California, reaching 30 feet tall and 15 feet wide. Handles hot beach and desert conditions. When old leaves drop, they leave behind a stout, rough and scarred trunk. |
Caring for and pruning brahea Trees
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 203, Brahea
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