Coccothrinax fragrans
 
Common Names Fragrant Silver Palm, Guano, Caribbean Silver Palm
 
Zones 10B–11
 
A rare and elegant fan palm native to eastern Cuba and Hispaniola, Coccothrinax fragrans is prized for its fragrant yellow flowers, slender trunk, and shimmering silver leaf undersides. Often confused with C. argentata, this species is distinguished by its more upright form and longer inflorescences. It thrives in coastal gardens and limestone soils, making it ideal for collectors and minimalist tropical designs.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; slow-growing
Height: 10–16 ft (3–5 m)
Trunk: Slender; 3–6 in (8–15 cm) diameter; initially wrapped in fibrous leaf bases, later smooth
Leaves: Palmate; 16–24 leaves; 40–54 segments; light green above, silvery beneath; 16–24 in (40–60 cm) wide
Inflorescence: Monoecious; fragrant yellow flowers, 6–8 mm across; panicles up to 6 ft (2 m) long; blooms in summer
Fruit: Round, purple-black; ~0.5 in (1.2 cm) diameter; wildlife-friendly
Ecology: Native to dry tropical forests, savannas, and coastal scrub; tolerant of salty sea air and limestone soils2
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun
Watering: Low once established; moderate during establishment
Soil: Alkaline, well-drained; prefers sandy or limestone substrates
Temperature: Hardy to 30°F (–1°C); frost-sensitive
Humidity: Moderate; tolerates dry air and coastal exposure
Propagation: By seed; slow germination; seedlings benefit from partial shade
Tolerance: High drought and salt wind tolerance; low tolerance to saltwater flooding
 
Landscape Use Ideal for coastal gardens, xeriscapes, and Caribbean-themed designs. Works well as a specimen palm or in minimalist groupings. Pairs beautifully with Thrinax radiata, Coccothrinax argentata, and Leucothrinax morrisii.