About

A graceful palm, Butia yatay can reach heights of up to 10 meters, featuring a solitary trunk and prominently arching leaves that are segmented into many narrow, grey-green leaflets. During the summer months, it bears elongated, branched clusters of yellow blooms, which later develop into conical fruits that transition from green to purple. This species is resilient down to approximately -10°C, provided it is planted in well-draining soil.

About the genus

This genus comprises robust palms from South America, characterized by their arching, grey-green leaves that often droop. Some species are cultivated as stemless varieties, while others develop into small trees. Numerous Butia species bear edible fruits that can be processed into jellies and alcoholic beverages.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Acid, Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Well-drained

Aspect

South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Plant type

Palms

Habit

Columnar upright

Foliage

Evergreen

Height

8-12 metres

Spread

1.5-2.5 metres

Time to full height

More than 50 years

Suggested uses

Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants, Sub-tropical

Native to

Brazil to Argentina

Care notes

Cultivation

Outdoors grow in deep, well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Hardiness is dependent on the ground being dry in very cold spells. See palm cultivation outdoors. Under glass grow in loam-based potting compost in bright, filtered light. When in growth, water moderately and apply a balanced liquid fertiliser monthly; keep just moist in winter. Pot on or top-dress in spring. See palm cultivation indoors

Pruning

No pruning required

Propagation

Propagate by seed; germination may be slow and erratic

Pest resistance

May be susceptible to glasshouse red spider mite and scale insects when grown under glass

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free