Coccothrinax crinita

Coccothrinax crinita, commonly known as the old man palm, is an intricately designed tropical palm native to Cuba. The small tree will grow to a height of 10 to 20 feet and develops a trunk that is covered with a thick, fibrous, wooly material, even on small specimens. It is drought tolerant and easily identifiable by its signature look and cream-to-brown color.

The old man palm requires full sun to thrive and does well in moderate water. It can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11 and can tolerate short, light frosts. It is a very slow-growing palm in its earlier years, which display a crown of silver fan-like leaves. As the palm reaches maturity, it will eventually flower and produce multiple items, including white flowers, black fruit, and seeds.

When grown in a pot, you will need to take extra care. In cooler regions, the soil should be able to drain well and you should be sure to move it away from the cold winds. It will also need to be fertilized and fertilizing around mid-spring is optimum. This tropical palm can even withstand brief cold periods, though its growth may slow during winter months.

This fascinating palm tree is sure to add a unique beauty to your landscape with its unique trunk and foliage, and with a little bit of care, you can enjoy its beauty for years to come.

Similar plants:

• Coccothrinax argentata, Coccothrinax garberi, Coccothrinax jucunda (Florida Silver Thatch Palm)
• Coccothrinax barbadensis (Silver Thatch, Barbados Silver Palm)
• Coccothrinax borhidiana (Borhidi's Guano Palm)
• Coccothrinax miraguama (Miraguama Palm)
• Coccothrinax readii, Coccothrinax argentata of Henderson (Mexican Silver Palm, Knacas, Nakax, Mexican Silver Thatch Palm)
• Coccothrinax sp. (Old Man Palm)
• Zombia antillarum, Chamaerops antillarum, Coccothrinax anomala (Zombie Palm, Latanier Zombi)