Care of the palm tree Astrocaryum mexicanum or Chocho palm |
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The genus Astrocaryum, family Arecaceae, includes 36 species of palm trees native to Central and South America. Some species are: Astrocaryum vulgare, Astrocaryum confertum, Astrocaryum standleyanum, Astrocaryum aculeatum, Astrocaryum jauari. Common names: Chocho palm, Cohune palm, Chapay. This species is native to Mexico and Central America. Astrocaryum mexicanum is an evergreen palm tree that has black spines (up to 6 cm long) on the trunk and reaches 3-8 meters (9-30 feet) in height. The pinnate leaves measure up to 1 meter (3.28 feet) in length and have dark green leaflets on the upper side and silver on the underside. It produces inflorescences in erect panicles up to 30 cm (11.8") long. The 4 cm (1.57") thorny globose fruits are brown. Chocho palm is used in light undergrowth, as an isolated specimen and in pots for patios and terraces. Do not plant it in passageways due to its long spines. Astrocaryum mexicanum grows in semi-shade and full sun exposures. It needs a warm and humid climate. It resists occasional frosts down to -2 ºC (28.4 ºF). The soil can be normal garden soil with abundant organic matter and 20% coarse sand. Water regularly so that the substrate never dries out completely. Chocho palm does not resist drought. It is important that the ambient humidity is high. Fertilize with compost in late winter or early spring. Prune wilted inflorescences and dry leaves. This palm tree does not usually present serious problems with pests and diseases but is sensitive to frost. Astrocaryum mexicanum is propagated from seeds sown in spring or autumn; they take up to 2 months to germinate. |
Images of the palm tree Astrocaryum mexicanum or Chocho palm |
 Astrocaryum mexicanum |