Contents
Description
Butia, also known as jelly palm or pindo palm, is a genus of palm trees native to South America. This hardy tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and has a bushy, spreading crown. Butia trees are known for their delicious fruits that are similar to apricots or dates. The fruits are high in vitamin C and are often used to make jams, jellies, and alcoholic beverages.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta|| Class| Liliopsida|| Order| Arecales|| Family| Arecaceae|| Genus| Butia|
Appearance
Butia has a single trunk that is covered with brown, fibrous bark. Its leaves are feather-like and can grow up to 10 feet long. The leaves are green and have a silver underside. Butia flowers are yellow and grow in clusters. The tree produces small, round fruits that are yellow or orange when ripe. The fruits are about 1-2 inches in diameter and have a sweet, tangy flavor.
Care Guide
To care for a Butia tree, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and full sunlight. The tree can tolerate a range of soil types, but it prefers soil that is slightly acidic. Butia trees require regular watering, especially during the summer months. Fertilize the tree once a year with a slow-release fertilizer. Butia trees can tolerate cold temperatures down to 15°F and are hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Butia trees are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to fungal infections if the soil is too wet. Spider mites and mealybugs may also infest the tree, causing yellowing or curling of the leaves. Regular inspection of the tree and prompt treatment of any issues can prevent more serious problems.
Habitat
Butia trees are native to Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. They grow in a variety of habitats, including savannas, forests, and grasslands. Butia trees can tolerate a range of temperatures and soil types, making them a popular ornamental tree in many parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for a Butia tree to produce fruit?
A: Butia trees usually begin producing fruit when they are 5-8 years old.
Q: Can Butia trees grow in containers?
A: Yes, Butia trees can be grown in containers but may require more frequent watering and fertilizing.
Q: Can Butia fruits be eaten raw?
A: Yes, Butia fruits can be eaten raw, but they are often cooked or processed into jams or jellies.
Q: Do Butia trees require pruning?
A: Butia trees do not require pruning, but removing dead or damaged fronds can improve the tree’s appearance.
Related Plants
– Syagrus romanzoffiana (Queen Palm)- Phoenix canariensis (Canary Island Date Palm)- Trachycarpus fortunei (Windmill Palm)- Chamaedorea elegans (Parlor Palm)
References
– “Butia capitata.” Floridata. Accessed August 19, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/509.- “Butia capitata (Jelly Palm).” Plant Care Today. Accessed August 19, 2021. https://plantcaretoday.com/butia-capitata.html.- “Butia capitata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 19, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c700.
