Butiagrus nabonnandii
 
Common Names Mule Palm, Butia × Syagrus, Butia Queen Cross
 
Zones 9A–11
 
A rare intergeneric hybrid between Butia capitata and Syagrus romanzoffiana, Butiagrus nabonnandii blends the best traits of both parents: the cold tolerance and stout trunk of the Pindo Palm with the graceful, coconut-like crown of the Queen Palm. Sterile and propagated only by hand-pollination, this palm is prized for its lush appearance and adaptability to cooler climates.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; moderate to fast growth rate
Height: Typically 20–30 ft (6–9 m); spread 5–10 ft (1.5–3 m)
Trunk: Stout, gray; retains leaf bases; resembles coconut palm in silhouette
Leaves: Pinnate; arching; 5–10 ft (1.5–3 m) long; 80–150 leaflets; dark green and feathery
Petiole: Short; unarmed or lightly toothed
Inflorescence: Sterile hybrid; flowers may appear but do not produce viable seed
Fruit: Occasionally present; green and non-viable
Ecology: Hybrid origin; not found in the wild; thrives in coastal and inland subtropical zones
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade
Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Soil: Well-drained; adaptable from sandy to loamy soils
Temperature: Hardy to 14°F (–10°C); thrives in 65–90°F (18–32°C)
Humidity: Moderate; tolerates coastal exposure
Propagation: By hand-pollinated seed only; not self-sustaining
Tolerance: Cold, wind, drought, salt; dislikes poor drainage
 
Landscape Use Ideal for temperate tropical gardens, coastal landscapes, and coconut-style plantings in frost-prone areas. Pairs well with Sabal palmetto, Washingtonia robusta, and Phoenix sylvestris.