Coccothrinax ekmanii


A very desirable, small Coccothrinax from the island of Hispaniola, where it occurs on the Barahona peninsula, both in Haiti and in the Dominican Republic, and in easternmost Cuba. It is adapted to dry scrub forest, usually growing on heavily eroded limestone rock with little humus and not far from the sea. The slender, single trunk is clothed in the thick, woody fibers of the leaf sheath; the small, silvery leaves sport few, very rigid segments. It is best adapted to dry tropical climates and once established can endure drought and full coastal exposure. It should be planted in full sun and in well drained soil.