Parajubaea cocoides aka Quito Palm

Parajubaea cocoides, or Quito palm, belongs to the palm family. Kew lists its range from southern Colombia to northwestern Peru. Other sources describe it as known only in cultivation. Growers raise it in high valleys of the Andes. These sites lie at 6,560–9,840 feet [2,000–3,000 metres]. Its links to cultivation make its wild origin less clear. It keeps its leaves all year and forms one trunk.

Reported heights range from about 33–49 feet [10–15 metres]. Useful Tropical Plants also gives an upper height of 52 feet [16 metres]. The trunk does not branch and bears thick fibres. It measures about 0.9–1.5 feet [0.27–0.45 metres] across. A crown of 20–30 large leaves tops the stem. The long, pinnate leaves hang down from the crown. Each leaf has dark green leaflets with white undersides. Its form recalls a coconut palm, though it suits cooler sites.

Each tree carries separate male and female flowers. The supplied sources give no clear flowering season. The tree bears fruit with seeds people eat locally. Each seed measures about 0.07 feet [0.02 metres] long. People eat the sweet seeds raw or cooked. They also extract an edible oil from them. Plants For A Future gives it a low edible-use rating. Both use references report no known hazards. Neither source lists a known medicinal use.

Mature palms need sun and shelter from harsh weather. Young plants benefit from shade against the strongest sun. Light soil with good drainage gives the best results. The palm also accepts sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It tolerates mildly acid through mildly alkaline soil. Give it ample water during the growing season. Established plants can cope with drought. Sources describe its growth rate as medium. Cool summers suit it better than hot weather. Warm nights above 55°F [13°C] may reduce its vigour. It prefers frost-free sites but can endure some light frost.

Gardeners grow this palm in parks and large gardens. It gives cool-climate plantings a palm shape and bold foliage. Suggested sites include sunny garden edges and sheltered wall positions. Its deep roots favour planting it out while young. Sow fresh seed in a warm greenhouse after harvest. Stored seed can prove harder to sprout. Plants For A Future suggests a warm-water soak before sowing. Keep seedlings under glass for their first two winters. Plant out after frost danger passes, and protect young palms from cold. The supplied accounts name no pests or diseases.