Brahea armata

Mexican Fan Palm, Blue Hesper Palm

From £221.25

A spectacular powder blue, the Mexican Fan Palm is a slow-growing palm that makes for a great architectural addition to a sunny and mild garden with excellent drainage or a hot conservatory.

As Brahea armata matures, a thick trunk develops below its exceptional evergreen canopy.

Origin: Mexico
Genus: Brahea
Species / Cultivar: armata
Common Name: Mexican Fan Palm, Blue Hesper Palm

Plant Biography

This species is endemic to Mexico (Baja California, Sonora), where it is locally common in arroyos and canyon bottoms, as well as rock crevices at higher elevations.

The indigenous native Americans of this area are called the Cocopah or the River People, and they have lived along the lower Colorado River and delta for centuries. Traditionally, they eat the seeds of Brahea armata after roasting them.

Brahea armata
Soil: Well drained
Soil that does not show much signs of moisture, either visibly or when handled.
Growth Rate: Slow
This plant is particularly slow to grow, even during growing season.
Water Requirement: Low
Will grow in a drier position and is unlikely to need regular watering once established.
Maintenance: Low
Minimal skill or input needed beyond the basics, a very independent plant.
Situation: Full Sun
Wants direct, unfiltered sunlight most of the day, such as a south facing position.
Eventual Height: 8-12m
The plant's ultimate height in typical growing conditions.
Eventual Spread: 4-8m
The plant's ultimate spread in typical growing conditions.
Hardiness: Hardy
Survives unprotected in an average winter. May need protection in extreme long frosts.
Habit: Evergreen
Always in leaf throughout the year. It won't lose all its leaves at any one time.

Expert Tip

Brahea armata is a perfect companion for other hardy arid plants such as Yucca, Dasylirion and Nolina. It is a great choice for use as a container specimen.

Care & Size Guidance

Though slow growing, it can be sped up with occasional deep irrigation in the summer months.

Be prepared to provide winter protection in colder gardens, though this species is able to handle temperatures down to -10°C.

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