Solitaire Palm

Solitaire palm is a single-trunk tropical palm with a narrow crown of arching, pinnate fronds. Its restrained scale and upright outline make it a useful specimen for a small yard or a warm, sheltered courtyard. ## Form and flowers The University of Florida identifies this palm as *Ptychosperma elegans* and describes a solitary trunk, dark green to gray-green fronds, branched green-yellow flower clusters, and red oval fruit. It can reach about 20 feet and is suited to specimen planting. See the [UF/IFAS Solitaire palm profile](https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FR313). ## Placement Provide full sun to partial shade and a well-drained site. The palm performs best in nutrient-rich soil and can be used where its compact crown and single stem will remain visible. Protect it from cold appropriate to your local climate; the warm-climate origin limits its use outdoors in colder regions. ## Maintenance Water regularly, especially while the palm establishes and during dry weather, without leaving its roots in saturated soil. Remove old or damaged fronds when needed, using care around the trunk and nearby foliage. Allow room for the crown and flower clusters as the palm matures.