Aiphanes aculeata
 
Common Names Coyure Palm, Ruffle Palm, Spine Palm
 
Zones 9B–11
 
Aiphanes aculeata, native to northern South America and the Caribbean, is a solitary-stemmed palm known for its dramatic spines and ruffled, feather-like fronds. Despite its armored appearance, it’s a favorite among collectors for its ornamental value and manageable size. It thrives in tropical gardens and container culture, offering bold texture and architectural interest.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary palm; moderate growth rate
Height: Up to 15 m (50 ft) in cultivation; typically 3–10 m in habitat
Trunk: Pale gray, 6–15 cm diameter; densely armed with black spines
Leaves: Pinnate, 10–15 fronds; leaflets clustered in irregular planes, light green with broad tips
Petiole: Spiny; supports arching, ruffled fronds
Inflorescence: Subtended by woody spathe; orange-yellow flowers in summer
Fruit: Round, 1–2.3 cm diameter; bright red to orange with bony endocarp
Ecology: Native to dry forests and lowland tropics; pollinated by bees and flies
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Watering: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture
Soil: Moist, well-draining loam; slightly acidic
Temperature: Ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C); protect from frost
Humidity: Moderate to high; benefits from tropical humidity
Propagation: By seed; germination slow (up to 12 months)
Tolerance: Sensitive to cold; tolerates drought once established
 
Landscape Use Ideal for tropical gardens, container displays, and collector landscapes. Pairs well with Bactris gasipaes, Chamaedorea metallica, and Heliconia rostrata.