The Silver Palm (Coccothrinax argentata) is a striking native Florida species that brings both beauty and ecological value to the landscape. Reaching heights of 5 to 20 feet with a slender 5-foot spread, this slow-growing palm features elegant white flowers and vibrant red to purple fruit that attract bees, birds, and butterflies. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soils rich in sand, lime rock, or humus, especially those with a calcareous (high pH) profile. Notably resilient, the Silver Palm withstands hurricane-force winds and serves as a larval host for the monk skipper butterfly. Its fruit provides food and nesting material for birds, making it a vital addition to wildlife-friendly gardens. Listed as threatened in Florida, planting Silver Palm supports native habitat restoration while adding a graceful, silvery accent to your garden.
- Palm, slow growing
- State-threatened
- Size: 5-20 ft. tall by 5 ft. wide
- Flower: White
- Fruit: Red, purple
- Exposure: Full sun, part shade
- Moisture: Well-drained
- Soil: Sand, lime rock, humus
- Soil pH: Calcareous
- Hurricane wind resistance
- Birds use it for nesting and food
- Bees are attracted to the flowers
- Larval host for monk skipper
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