Southern Jelly Palm

**Butia odorata**, the southern jelly palm, is a solitary, feather-leaved palm native to southern Brazil and adjacent Uruguay. [Kew recognizes it as a distinct species](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60455904-2); its stiff, arching blue-green leaves and stout trunk give it a specimen form, while its fragrant flowers and colorful fruit add seasonal interest. ## Garden use and growing conditions The [North Carolina Extension profile](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/butia-odorata/common-name/yatay-palm/) describes a warm, sunny site and well-drained soil, with some drought tolerance once established. It reports a typical height of 15–20 feet and spread of 10–15 feet, while noting growth and leaf color vary with exposure. The fruit is edible and can be used for jelly or wine; fallen ripe fruit may need gathering near walks and patios. The profile lists spring flowers that attract bees and USDA zones 8a through 10b, so local winter conditions matter when choosing a site. The [University of Arizona Arboretum](https://apps.cals.arizona.edu/arboretum/taxon.aspx?id=40) reports a broader zone range of 8–11. ## Maintenance Allow room for the crown and keep the soil from staying wet. In low-nutrient soil, the extension recommends palm-specific fertilizer; take care around the short teeth on the leaf stalks.