Root Spine Palm 25G

Root Spine Palm – 25 Gallon Pot (Cryosophila stauracantha) available in Jupiter, FL.

Discover a true statement palm for your South Florida landscape: the Root Spine Palm (Cryosophila stauracantha), offered here in a robust 25‑gallon container, ready for installation. This striking palm is instantly recognizable by its slender trunk covered in spine‑like modified roots—a rare and exotic feature that gives it both texture and horticultural distinction. palmpedia.net+1

Belonging to the Arecaceae family and the Liliopsida class (monocots), the Root Spine Palm delivers a dramatic architectural accent while thriving in subtropical environments. Its elegant fan‑shaped leaves, subtle silver undersides, and unique trunk make it perfect for a luxury garden, feature bed, or tropical patio.

Key Features:

• Botanical Name: Cryosophila stauracantha

• Common Name: Root Spine Palm

• Family: Arecaceae

• Class: Liliopsida

• Pot Size: 25 Gallon

• Mature Height: Up to ~20‑30 feet in ideal conditions

• Spread: 6‑10 feet

• USDA Zones: 9b–11 (well suited for South Florida)

• Trunk: Slender and covered with distinctive downward‑pointing root spines

• Foliage: Fan‑shaped leaves, with silvery undersides for added visual interest

• Growth Habit: Solitary stem, upright form

Sunlight Needs:
Thrives in bright, indirect to full sun. For best results in South Florida, provide at least 4‑6 hours of direct sunlight, and ideally morning sun with afternoon dappled shade to avoid leaf scorch.

Watering Requirements:
Keep soil consistently moist but well‑drained while the palm establishes. Once established, the Root Spine Palm becomes moderately drought‑tolerant—but avoid extremes of drying out or standing water, both of which can stress this species. PictureThis+1

Soil Preferences:
Prefers well‑draining soils, such as sandy or loamy mixes typical of South Florida yards. Slightly acidic to neutral pH is ideal. Ensure good drainage because this species does not tolerate saturated root zones.

Fertilization:
Apply a balanced palm fertilizer with micronutrients 2–3 times per year, especially in the growing season. Because of this palm’s slower growth habit and refined structure, avoid high‑nitrogen blends that may produce overly lush foliage at the expense of form.

Pest & Disease Tips:
Generally low maintenance. Monitor for common palm pests such as scale and ensure the trunk spines remain intact (they are a natural feature, not damage). Provide good airflow to reduce fungal risks in humid conditions.

Maintenance & Pruning:
Minimal pruning required—remove only dead or damaged fronds and avoid altering the unique trunk silhouette. Mulch around the base to help moderate soil temperature and retain moisture early on.

Why It Works in South Florida:

• A rare and visually dramatic palm—the trunk’s root spines add texture and intrigue.

• Maintains a slender profile, making it suitable for narrower planting areas or accent spots.

• Adapted to warm, humid subtropical climates like South Florida.

• Model specimen for upscale landscapes, poolside gardens, or tropical luxury settings—delivering both form and exotic appeal.

Jupiter Farms & Nursery