SCIENTIFIC NAME: Aiphanes caryotifolia

COMMON NAME(S): Ruffle palm
SUB FAMILY: Arecoideae
TRIBE: Cocoeae
ORIGIN: Northern South America
HARDINESS ZONES: 10B-11 (damaged at 26 F, slight damage at 32 degrees F)
TYPICAL MAXIMUM HEIGHT: 20-30'
GROWTH RATE: Moderate to fast
HABIT: Solitary with crown of 10-15 drooping leaves
SALT TOLERANCE: Low
DROUGHT TOLERANCE: Low to moderate
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Prefers deep, moist soil
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Low at first, later non-specific
NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS: Moderate
POPULAR USES: Specimen
HUMAN HAZARDS: Long, stiff spines on trunk and leaves
POPULAR OR RECOMMENDED CULTIVARS: None

COMMENTS: The ruffled, "fishtail" leaves that droop to form a long skirt make an interesting contrast with other foliage. The black spines on trunk, both leaf surfaces, petioles and flower stalks are attractive but place limits on where the palm may safely be used. This palm may be carried under the name A. aculeata.