Hyophorbe lagenicaulis (Bottle Palm)

Named for its unusual trunk, Hyophorbe lagenicaulis (Bottle Palm) is a picturesque evergreen palm with a smooth, pale gray to almost white trunk resembling a rounded bottle when young. As the palm ages, the swollen base becomes less pronounced and elongated. On top of the trunk sits a sparse canopy of 4-8 gracefully arching, glossy dark green, feather-like leaves, up to 6 ft. long (180 cm).

Named for its unusual trunk, Hyophorbe lagenicaulis (Bottle Palm) is a picturesque evergreen palm with a smooth, pale gray to almost white trunk resembling a rounded bottle when young. As the palm ages, the swollen base becomes less pronounced and elongated. On top of the trunk sits a sparse canopy of 4-8 gracefully arching, glossy dark green, feather-like leaves, up to 6 ft. long (180 cm). The crownshaft (from which the fronds emerge) is a paler green, with a smooth and waxy surface. Each leaf is divided into 140 slender, lance-shaped leaflets arranged in two upward pointing rows. Creamy-white flowers borne in branched inflorescences encircle the trunk beneath the crown. They give way to small, round fruits which change from green to black as they ripen. A moderate grower, Bottle Palm is drought and salt tolerant. It is hardy to 32°F (0°C). A unique palm to be grown as a specimen or in groups. It can also be grown indoors in a container.

  • Grows up to 12-15 ft. tall (360-450 cm) and 6-8 ft. wide (180-240 cm).
  • Easily grown in well-drained soils in full sun with regular watering. Tolerates moderate shade. The plant responds well to regular water but has some drought tolerance. Displays good salt tolerance.
  • No serious disease or pest issues. May require regular fertilization to prevent potassium deficiencies.
  • Propagate by seed. Will germinate in 5-6 months.
  • Native to Mauritius Islands.

Requirements

Hardiness 10
– 11

Plant Type Palms – Cycads
Plant Family Palms – Cycads
Exposure Full Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)FallWinter
Height 12'
– 15'
(3.6m
– 4.5m)
Spread 6'
– 8'
(180cm
– 240cm)
Water Needs Low, Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy, Evergreen
Tolerance Drought
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Patio and Containers
Garden Styles Coastal Garden, Mediterranean Garden