Copernicia fallaensis
 
Common Names Falla Palm, Cuban Marble Palm
 
Zones 9B–11
 
A towering fan palm endemic to central Cuba, Copernicia fallaensis is among the largest and most visually commanding species in the genus. With its smooth, white trunk and massive, waxy blue-green leaves, it evokes classical architecture and botanical grandeur. Often compared to Copernicia baileyana, it surpasses even that species in scale and presence2.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Solitary; slow-growing
Height: Up to 65 ft (20 m); crown spread over 26 ft (8 m)
Trunk: Smooth; white to pale gray; columnar; up to 36 in (90 cm) diameter
Leaves: Costapalmate; rigid; circular; ~120 stiff segments; waxy blue-green; up to 13 ft (4 m) long
Inflorescence: Bisexual flowers; emerges among leaves
Fruit: Black; globose; ~0.75 in (1.8 cm) diameter; food source for native wildlife
Ecology: Endemic to dry savannas near Falla, Cuba; adapted to alkaline soils and seasonal drought; endangered due to habitat loss2
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun
Watering: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
Soil: Well-drained; alkaline or sandy; avoid rich soils
Temperature: Hardy to ~26°F (–3°C); foliage may burn in hard freezes
Humidity: Moderate; tolerates seasonal dryness
Propagation: By seed; slow germination; seedlings benefit from partial shade
Tolerance: High drought and salt tolerance; sensitive to overwatering
 
Landscape Use Ideal for grand focal points, formal gardens, and collectors seeking rare architectural specimens. Pairs well with Copernicia baileyana, Copernicia hospita, and Coccothrinax spissa.