Also known as Brazilian Needle Palm · Spiny Fibre Palm
Trithrinax brasiliensis, the Carana palm, is a striking palm native to Brazil, known for its rigid, fan-shaped leaves and spiny trunk.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth and development, but can tolerate partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings during the growing season; reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers warm temperatures and can tolerate some cooler periods but is sensitive to frost.
Outdoor
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced palm fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer).
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter, providing just enough to prevent the soil from becoming completely dry.
Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot, especially for young plants.
Pruning is minimal for Trithrinax brasiliensis. Remove only dead, damaged, or diseased fronds and fruit stalks as needed.
Avoid cutting green fronds, as these are essential for the palm's energy production and overall health. Allow natural shedding.
Propagation is primarily done through seeds. Seeds require warm temperatures and consistent moisture for germination. Scarification or soaking seeds prior to sowing can improve germination rates.
This method is slow and requires patience for new plants to establish.
Young palms may benefit from repotting every 2-3 years into slightly larger containers to accommodate root growth.
Mature plants are often best left in their containers or planted in situ, as they dislike root disturbance. Ensure fresh potting mix with good drainage.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Carana Palm (Trithrinax brasiliensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Arecales |
| Family | Arecaceae |
| Genus | Trithrinax |
| Species | Trithrinax brasiliensis |
Similar in genus Trithrinax
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
