Everglades Palm

The Everglades or [Paurotis palm](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:663912-1) is a slow-growing, clumping palm with slender stems and fan-shaped light-green fronds. Its upright canes form a distinctive tropical screen or specimen planting, and spring flowers are followed by small fruits that ripen from green through orange to black. ## Landscape use and size Native from southern Florida and the Caribbean through Central America, this palm suits warm landscapes where its multi-stemmed outline has room to spread. [UF/IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST058) reports plants to about 30 feet tall and 20 feet across; the [Florida Treasure Coast guide](https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/charlotteco/2025/02/12/mr-wrights-palm/) lists a typical landscape range of 20–30 feet tall with a 15–20 foot canopy. ## Siting and seasonal interest Plant in full sun or light shade in moist soil. It grows faster with moisture and can handle occasional wet soil, but [UF/IFAS](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/ST058) cautions that it is not tolerant of salt spray. The evergreen fronds, spring inflorescences and summer fruit provide interest across the year. Spiny petioles and stems call for care when placing the palm beside paths or other frequently used areas. ## Maintenance Remove dead leaves and spent flower or fruit stalks as needed. Avoid excessive pruning; retain healthy fronds. In Florida, [regular palm nutrition](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP348) is important, and high-pH or calcareous soils can trigger serious manganese deficiency. Follow locally appropriate palm-fertilizer guidance and monitor new leaves for yellowing or tip damage.