Beccariophoenix alfredii
 
Common Names High Plateau Coconut Palm, Madagascar Coconut Mimic
 
Zones 9B–11
A rare and cold-hardy palm endemic to the high plateaus of Madagascar, Beccariophoenix alfredii resembles a true coconut palm in form but thrives in cooler, inland conditions. Found along sandy riverbeds at elevations over 3,000 ft, it endures drought, frost, and even occasional fire. Its upright trunk and arching fronds make it a dramatic centerpiece for subtropical landscapes, especially where true coconuts cannot grow.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; slow to moderate growth
Height: 30–50 ft in cultivation; up to 65 ft in habitat
Trunk: Smooth, gray, up to 12 in diameter; no crownshaft
Leaves: Pinnate, arching fronds up to 15 ft long; leaflets evenly spaced, slightly recurved
Petiole: Unarmed; leaf bases persistent in youth, clean trunk with age
Inflorescence: Cream-colored flowers on branched spikes; monoecious
Fruit: Oval, green to brown when ripe; ~2 in long; not edible
Ecology: Native to Manalazina region of Madagascar; grows in sandy, fire-prone grasslands at ~3,400 ft elevation
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade
Watering: Moderate; prefers deep, infrequent watering
Soil: Sandy or gritty loam; tolerates clay with good drainage
Temperature: Hardy to 25°F (–4°C); ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C)
Humidity: Moderate to high
Propagation: By seed; germination in 2–6 months
Tolerance: Resistant to cold, drought, wind, and fire; dislikes poor drainage
 
Landscape Use Ideal for subtropical gardens, coconut-style plantings, and high-elevation restoration. Pairs well with Butia odorata, Aloe vaombe, and Dombeya burgessiae.