Cuban Petticoat Palm

Copernicia macroglossa, the Cuban petticoat palm, is a single-trunk fan palm known for the skirt of old leaves that remains around its trunk. UF/IFAS gives a typical mature size of 15 feet tall by 10 feet wide and notes its very short petioles. [UF/IFAS, Ornamental Palms for South Florida](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP009) ## Form and placement The persistent leaf skirt gives this palm a strong, sculptural outline, so place it where the trunk and crown have room to read clearly. UF/IFAS lists it for full sun and rates salt-spray tolerance as moderate. Its site guidance for palms recommends a protected location near the ocean when salt tolerance is moderate. [UF/IFAS landscape plant guide](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP107) ## Establishment and care Water thoroughly at planting, then water daily for the first few weeks and frequently until the palm is established, following UF/IFAS guidance. Do not amend the backfill soil. Large palms need temporary bracing for six to eight months after planting. As a non-crownshaft palm, it may retain aging leaves; UF/IFAS explains that naturally senescent fronds can be removed, while persistent discolored leaves may indicate a nutrient issue rather than normal aging. See the [palm maintenance guide](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP009). ## Maintenance