SafePlants

Queen Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana)

The Queen Palm, scientifically known as Syagrus romanzoffiana, is a popular palm species admired for its graceful appearance and adaptability to various climates. It is also commonly referred to as the Cocos Palm.

Considerations for Pets

• The Queen Palm produces small orange fruit.
• The text mentions the fronds are feathery and die early which results in the fallen fronds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Syagrus romanzoffiana
• Common Names: Queen Palm, Cocos Palm
• Family: Arecaceae
• Synonyms: S. romanzoffianum, Arecastrum romanzoffianum, Cocus plumosa

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to South America, specifically from Southern Brazil to Argentina, Paraguay, and northern Argentina.
• Widely planted in tropical and subtropical climates, including South Florida, California, and the southern United States.
• Commonly found in home landscapes, commercial settings, and urban environments.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Medium-sized palm, typically reaching 30-50 feet (10-15 meters) in height.
• Fast-growing with a solitary, straight trunk.
• The trunk can vary in thickness. Certain variants such as 'Piru Queen Palms' have thicker trunks.
• Feather-leaved palm with graceful, arching leaves that can reach 6-7.5 feet long.
• Produces small orange fruit.

Ecological Role

• While not explicitly stated as invasive in this text, its widespread planting outside its native range, including NW Florida, suggests it can readily establish in suitable environments.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Susceptible to certain insect pests, including palm leaf skeletonizer and scale.
• Vulnerable to ganoderma butt rot, a fungal disease.
• Not affected by lethal yellowing disease.

Quirky Facts

• The Queen Palm was previously known as Cocos plumosa, highlighting a past "identity crisis" in its classification.

Additional Information

• Moon Valley Nurseries, Monrovia, and Lowes.com are mentioned as sources for information and purchasing.