Copernicia ekmanii
 
Common Names Ekman’s Silver Palm, Om de Pay (local), Jamm de Pay
 
Zones 10A–11
 
A rare and striking fan palm endemic to northern Haiti, Copernicia ekmanii is revered for its powdery blue foliage, slender trunk, and resilience in rocky coastal scrub. Its compact crown and silvery leaves make it one of the most beautiful—and endangered—Copernicia species in cultivation2.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; slow-growing
Height: Typically 10–13 ft (3–4 m); old specimens may reach 40 ft (12 m)
Trunk: Slender; smooth; 6–8 in (15–20 cm) diameter
Leaves: Costapalmate; stiff; glaucous blue; tightly grouped; dead leaves form a skirt if untrimmed
Inflorescence: Slender; extends beyond crown; bisexual flowers
Fruit: Black; globose; ~0.7 in (1.8 cm) diameter
Ecology: Endemic to dry, rocky coastal scrub in northern Haiti; endangered due to overharvesting for thatch and construction
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to light shade
Watering: Moderate; prefers moist but well-drained soil
Soil: Rocky, sandy, or limestone-based; avoid rich soils
Temperature: Hardy to ~28°F (–2°C); foliage may burn in hard freezes
Humidity: Moderate; tolerates coastal exposure
Propagation: By seed; slow germination
Tolerance: High drought and salt tolerance; sensitive to overwatering
 
Landscape Use Ideal for coastal gardens, dry tropical landscapes, and collectors seeking rare, blue-foliage palms. Pairs well with Coccothrinax spissa, Copernicia curbeloi 'Blue Form', and Pseudophoenix ekmanii.