Carnauba Wax Palm

Copernicia prunifera, the carnauba wax palm, is a single-trunk fan palm with an open crown. UF/IFAS gives a typical mature size of 35 feet tall by 12 feet wide, notes its spiny petioles, and identifies it as a source of carnauba wax. [UF/IFAS, Ornamental Palms for South Florida](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP009) ## Form and placement The larger mature height and spiny petioles call for a spacious sunny site away from narrow paths. UF/IFAS describes silvery-white fan leaves and rates salt-spray tolerance as moderate; near the ocean, moderate-tolerance palms belong in protected sites. The landscape guide also notes that this species prefers well-drained soil and an arid climate, while tolerating South Florida humidity and short inundation. [UF/IFAS landscape plant guide](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP107) ## Establishment and care At planting, water thoroughly and avoid amending the backfill soil. UF/IFAS recommends daily watering for the first few weeks, then frequent watering until the palm is established; brace large palms for six to eight months. In Florida landscapes, appropriate palm fertilizer can help prevent nutrient deficiencies. [UF/IFAS palm guide](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP009) ## Maintenance