Copernicia baileyana
 
Common Names Bailey Palm, Yarey Palm
 
Zones 9B–11
 
A monumental fan palm endemic to central and eastern Cuba, Copernicia baileyana is revered for its massive, smooth trunk and perfectly circular, waxy green leaves. Its rigid, upright crown and silvery-gray trunk make it one of the most sculptural palms in cultivation. Though slow-growing, it rewards patience with unmatched elegance and durability.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; slow to moderate growth
Height: 30–67 ft (9–20 m); crown spread up to 20 ft (6 m)
Trunk: Whitish-gray; smooth; slightly swollen (ventricose); up to 24 in (60 cm) diameter
Leaves: Costapalmate; stiff; deeply segmented; glossy green above, waxy silver below; circular outline
Inflorescence: Bisexual flowers; emerges among leaves
Fruit: Black; ~0.75 in (1.8–2.3 cm) diameter
Ecology: Native to dry savannas and woodlands of Cuba; adapted to alkaline soils and seasonal drought
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun; tolerates partial shade
Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Soil: Well-drained; alkaline to neutral; tolerates poor substrates
Temperature: Hardy to 24–26°F (–4 to –3°C); foliage may burn in hard freezes
Humidity: Moderate; tolerates seasonal dryness
Propagation: By seed; germinates in 4–12 weeks; seedlings slow to trunk
Tolerance: High drought and salt tolerance; tolerates short-term flooding2
 
Landscape Use Ideal for grand focal points, formal gardens, and collectors seeking rare architectural specimens. Pairs well with Copernicia hospita, Coccothrinax spissa, and Pseudophoenix sargentii.