Tree Directory

Common Name

Christmas Palm

Family

Arecaceae

Origin & Distribution

Native to the Philippines. Widely cultivated as an ornamental palm in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, including Nigeria.

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Tree Code

UI-BG-TS-006

GPS Coordinates (Lat, Long)

7.456755, 3.894763

QR Code

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Description

Small to medium-sized, slender palm reaching 5–10 meters in height. Trunk smooth, gray, and ringed with leaf scars; slightly swollen at the base. Crownshaft bright green, supporting 10–12 gracefully arching pinnate fronds about 2–3 meters long. Inflorescences appear below the crownshaft, producing small white to cream flowers. Fruits are round to oval, about 2–3 cm in diameter, turning bright red when ripe, usually around December (hence the name "Christmas Palm").

Ecological Information

Prefers full sunlight and well-drained soils. Moderately drought-tolerant but thrives with regular watering. Adaptable to Nigeria's tropical climate, maintaining foliage year-round. Flowering and fruiting cycles can occur twice a year in favorable conditions.

Uses & Importance

Primarily grown for ornamental purposes in gardens, parks, and along walkways. Popular in landscaping due to its compact size, making it suitable for small spaces. Fruits are mainly decorative but may be eaten by birds.