Florida Thatch Palm

Florida thatch palm (Thrinax radiata) is a slow-growing, evergreen palm with a fan-shaped crown and green leaves. It is native to Florida and the Caribbean and is used as an accent or specimen tree in warm-climate landscapes. [The Florida Native Plant Society profile](https://www.fnps.org/plant/thrinax-radiata) describes its size, growing conditions, wildlife value, and salt exposure tolerance. ## Form and Placement The FNPS profile lists mature size at 15–30 feet tall by 5–15 feet wide and identifies the palm for specimen use, roadsides, and medians. UF/IFAS also lists Florida thatch palm as a 25-foot palm with high salt tolerance, and notes its natural occurrence in sand or limestone. The established size labels remain suitable for smaller or younger landscape specimens. ## Site and Soil Provide full sun or part sun and soil such as sand, loam, or limestone. The species suits USDA zones 10A–11. It tolerates high salt spray and salty soil, but is not tolerant of inundation by salty or brackish water; keep those conditions distinct when choosing a coastal site. ## Maintenance Water through establishment and during extended dry periods. Avoid prolonged saltwater flooding, and allow room for the slow-growing crown. Its white flowers and fruit, bird use, and pollinator activity add seasonal wildlife interest. [UF/IFAS lists the Florida thatch palm separately from the related Keys thatch palm](https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/miami-dade/landscapes--gardening/palms-cycads--palm-like-plants-g-z/).