Copernicia × textilis
 
Common Names Hybrid Wax Palm, Hospita–Baileyana Hybrid
 
Zones 10A–11
 
A rare natural hybrid believed to be a cross between Copernicia hospita and Copernicia baileyana, Copernicia × textilis combines the architectural elegance of both parents. It features a dense, upright crown of stiff, bluish leaves and a stout trunk with persistent leaf bases. Though not formally described in botanical literature, it’s gaining recognition among collectors for its unique morphology and slow, steady growth habit2.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; slow-growing
Height: 20–30 ft (6–9 m); trunk diameter ~10 in (25 cm)
Trunk: Gray; retains old leaf bases in a neat, stacked pattern
Leaves: Palmate; rigid; bluish-gray to silver; intermediate between parents
Petiole: Short to medium; may be armed
Inflorescence: Bisexual flowers; small, white; emerges among leaves
Fruit: Likely small and black; not well documented
Ecology: Presumed native to Cuba; found in transitional habitats between parent species
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun
Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Soil: Prefers well-drained, slightly alkaline soils
Temperature: Hardy to ~28°F (–2°C); frost-sensitive
Humidity: Moderate to high
Propagation: By seed (if fertile); vegetative propagation not documented
Tolerance: High drought and salt tolerance; suitable for coastal gardens
 
Landscape Use Ideal for collectors, botanical gardens, and dry tropical landscapes. Pairs well with Copernicia hospita, Copernicia baileyana, and Coccothrinax crinita.