Coccothrinax barbadensis
 
Common Names Barbados Silver Palm, Tyre Palm, Puerto Rican Thatch Palm
 
Zones 10B–11
 
A tall, slender fan palm native to the Lesser Antilles, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, Coccothrinax barbadensis is known for its silvery leaf undersides, upright form, and tolerance of harsh coastal conditions. It thrives in limestone and volcanic soils, making it ideal for exposed tropical landscapes.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; relatively fast-growing for the genus
Height: 10–50 ft (3–15 m); typically shorter in cultivation
Trunk: Slender, erect; 5–7 in (13–18 cm) diameter; smooth or wrapped in burlap-like fibers from old leaf bases
Leaves: Costapalmate; up to 5 ft (1.5 m) wide; divided two-thirds into narrow segments with drooping tips; bright green above, silver-gray beneath
Inflorescence: Monoecious; yellow flowers with both male and female parts; branched to two orders; up to 5 ft (1.5 m) long
Fruit: Spherical; purplish-black when ripe; 0.25–0.5 in (6–12 mm) diameter; wildlife-friendly
Ecology: Found on limestone hills, coastal scrub, and volcanic slopes; tolerates full sun, wind, and drought2
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun
Watering: Low once established; moderate during establishment
Soil: Prefers limestone or sandy substrates; well-drained
Temperature: Hardy to 30°F (–1°C); thrives in warm, dry climates
Humidity: Moderate; tolerates dry air and maritime exposure
Propagation: By seed; germination in 6–8 weeks; seedlings tolerate partial shade
Tolerance: High drought and salt wind tolerance; low tolerance to saltwater flooding
 
Landscape Use Excellent for coastal gardens, xeriscapes, and Caribbean-themed designs. Works well as a specimen palm or in clusters. Pairs beautifully with Thrinax morrisii, Serenoa repens, and Acoelorrhaphe wrightii.