White Rock Palm

White Rock Palm (Brahea calcarea) is a fan palm native to Mexico and Guatemala, where it grows on dry limestone hills. [Kew accepts the species](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:664895-1/general-information) and records its seasonally dry tropical range; the [University of Arizona Campus Arboretum](https://apps.cals.arizona.edu/arboretum/taxon.aspx?id=851) describes a slow-growing palm with a 30–36 foot height and 8–10 foot spread. That arboretum also lists Brahea nitida as a synonym. ## Landscape use Use it as a long-term specimen in a warm, open landscape, allowing room for its mature crown. The trunk is solitary and carries nearly circular fan leaves. The arboretum notes that the petioles are not thorny for this species, though palms should still be handled with care. ## Siting and climate Provide full sun and well-drained soil. The University of Arizona reports USDA zones 9–11 and tolerance of dry heat, drought and wind, while Kew places the species in a seasonally dry tropical biome. Protect it from prolonged freezing weather and avoid poorly drained sites. ## Water and soil Water during establishment, then water sparingly once roots are established. The species occurs on dry limestone hills, but irrigation should still reflect rainfall, soil drainage and summer heat. ## Maintenance Allow fronds to age and remove only those that are fully brown or damaged. Avoid cutting into the crown or trunk, and verify the plant identity before pruning.