Coyol palm

Coyol palm is the regional name for *Acrocomia aculeata*, an evergreen, single-stemmed palm native from southern Mexico through parts of Central and South America and the Caribbean. Its tall trunk and long, pinnate leaves give it a strong tropical silhouette, while its oil-bearing fruits are a traditional food and material crop. ## Landscape Use and Seasonal Interest The palm grows erect and may reach about 15–20 m (49–66 ft), often less. Its trunk, leaf sheaths, and leaf stalks carry conspicuous dark spines, so place it away from paths and work areas. The green crown remains through the year in suitable tropical conditions. FAO documents uses of the fruit and other plant parts, as well as use of the whole plant as an ornamental. ## Siting and Soil This is a tropical palm best suited to bright, warm locations with good drainage and room for a large root system and broad crown. FAO’s species profile reports that it tolerates seasonal drought but not waterlogged soil. The species is chiefly useful in tropical or warm subtropical settings; local climate should determine whether it can be grown outdoors year-round. ## Maintenance Allow space around the spiny trunk for routine access, and avoid planting close to walkways or seating. Do not let the root zone remain waterlogged. [Kew POWO](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:663914-1/general-information) · [FAO EcoCrop](https://ecocrop.apps.fao.org/ecocrop/srv/en/dataSheet?id=2783) · [FAO species profile](https://www.fao.org/docrep/016/ap368e/ap368e00.pdf)