Allagoptera brevicalyx

Allagoptera brevicalyx is a small palm native to northeastern Brazil, from Sergipe to northeastern Bahia. It is usually shorter than the related A. arenaria and has smaller leaves and fruit with a short persistent calyx; the distinction is documented in Larry Noblick’s [Guide to the Palms of Northeastern Brazil](https://www.botanica.org.br/wp-content/uploads/Guide-to-the-Palms-of-Northeastern-Brazil_LNoblick.pdf) and its accepted name and range are recorded by [Kew](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:303912-2). ## Form and habitat The guide characterizes this as a small palm, mostly under 1 m and rarely reaching 1.2 m. Its leaves are usually under 1 m long, with oblique or lobed leaflet tips. The species grows in coastal sand-dune habitat. It was historically confused with A. arenaria because both occupy similar dunes, but the shorter leaves and exposed, smooth green fruit are useful distinguishing features. ## Growing conditions A well-drained sandy setting reflects its documented habitat. The available sources establish the species’ taxonomy, range, and field characters, but provide limited cultivation guidance; treat exact water, cold-hardiness, and salt-exposure tolerances as unresolved rather than borrowing values from other Allagoptera species. ## Maintenance Avoid waterlogged soil and protect the growing point when removing damaged foliage. Allow space for the arching leaves, and monitor young plants for establishment needs in the local climate. No cultivar-specific pruning or feeding schedule was found.