Coccothrinax spissa
 
Common Names Swollen Silver Thatch Palm, Hispaniola Belly Palm, Bani Belly Palm
 
Zones 10B–11
 
A charismatic fan palm endemic to Hispaniola, Coccothrinax spissa is instantly recognizable for its dramatically swollen trunk and silvery-backed leaves. It thrives in dry savannas and open woodlands, making it ideal for collectors seeking bold architectural form in tropical or subtropical gardens.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; moderate growth rate
Height: 10–26 ft (3–8 m); crown spread ~10 ft (3 m)
Trunk: Stout; massively swollen midsection; 8–12 in (20–30 cm) diameter
Leaves: Costapalmate; fan-shaped; green above, silvery below; stiff and deeply divided
Inflorescence: Bisexual flowers; emerges among leaves
Fruit: Dark purple; ~0.5 in (1.2 cm) diameter
Ecology: Native to low-elevation dry savannas and woodland margins of the Dominican Republic; endangered due to habitat loss and grazing
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun
Watering: Moderate; prefers moist but well-drained soil
Soil: Sandy or rocky; tolerates limestone substrates
Temperature: Hardy to ~30°F (–1°C); best in frost-free climates
Humidity: Moderate; tolerates seasonal dryness
Propagation: By seed; slow germination; seedlings benefit from partial shade
Tolerance: High drought tolerance; sensitive to cold and overwatering
 
Landscape Use Ideal for bold focal points, dry tropical gardens, and collectors seeking rare sculptural forms. Pairs well with Copernicia baileyana, Coccothrinax crinita, and Pseudophoenix ekmanii.