Palm (Trithrinax)

Trithrinax is a genus of South American fan palms in the palm family, Arecaceae. Kew recognizes three species, with the genus distributed from Bolivia to northern Argentina and Brazil. ## Form and variation These palms include species with different mature sizes and growth forms. Some have fibrous, spiny leaf bases and sharply pointed leaf segments, while other details vary by species. A genus-level record does not identify which species is intended, so no single height, spread, or cold limit applies across every Trithrinax. The [Kew genus account](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30044067-2) summarizes its accepted species and native range; [Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria](https://hortflora.rbg.vic.gov.au/taxon/adadcb98-5340-11e7-b82b-005056b0018f) describes one species as an example of its distinctive spiny form. ## Garden placement Confirm the species before selecting a site or planning for mature size. For a known species, use its own regional guidance for sun, drainage, and winter exposure; recommendations for one Trithrinax should not be assumed to fit the whole genus. ## Maintenance Protect people from sharp leaves and old leaf-base spines when working nearby. Follow species-specific guidance for watering and pruning, and avoid cutting healthy green leaves.