Common Name(s): Mexican Blue Fan Palm, Blue Hesper Palm

Synonym(s):

Family: Arecaceae

Native To: Baja California and Mexico

Native Habitat: Arid regions in well drained soil

Growth Habit: Slow growing medium sized palm

Flowering: White flowers form on an inflorescence in the summer

Distinguishing Characteristics: This slow growing palm reaches heights of about 10 feet with a crown spread of about the same length or greater. The trunk is about 2 feet wide with a slightly larger width near the ground. The gray trunk is smooth with the exception of leaf scars. The stems of the leaves are covered with dark thorns and a wooly wax cover at the base. The leaves are silvery-blue in color. These stiff, waxy fronds remain lush and attractive for several years before dying. The fragrant white flowers form in drupes up to 20 inches long in the summer. The flowers than mature to a reddish brown color and produce hard berrylike fruit.

Natural History and Cultivation Notes: The species name, armata, meaning armed refers to the dark thorns located on the leaf stems.

Ethnobotany: This tree is used as an ornamental in public areas, along streets, and in residential landscapes. Its silvery-blue color and neat appearance make it an excellent landscape addition. The leaves of this palm, as most palm species, can be used to make brooms and as thatch for roofing.

Back to UA Arboretum Species Listing Page
Back to Campus Plant Walk