Also known as Ecuadorian Ivory Palm · Ivory Palm
Phytelephas aequatorialis, the Ecuadorian Tagua Palm, is a fascinating palm species native to South America, known for its ivory-like seeds.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Bright, Indirect Light
75% intensity
Prefers bright, filtered light. Avoid prolonged direct sun, which can scorch leaves.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce in cooler months. Ensure excellent drainage.
Well-draining, fertile soil
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Prefers consistent warmth, ideally between 20-27°C. Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 15°C.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength during the growing season (spring/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 in cooler months. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Overwatering is a common issue for this species, so err on the side of caution.
Pruning is generally not required for Ecuadorian Tagua Palms as they are slow-growing and naturally maintain an attractive shape. Remove any dead or damaged fronds at the base using a sharp, clean knife or pruners to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Propagation is typically done through seeds, which can be slow to germinate and require warm, humid conditions. Soaking seeds for 24-48 hours before sowing can improve germination rates.
This species is rarely propagated commercially.
Repotting is infrequent due to its slow growth. If necessary, repot every 3-5 years in spring, moving to a slightly larger container only when root-bound.
Use a well-draining potting mix suitable for palms, ensuring not to overwater after repotting.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Ecuadorian Tagua Palm (Phytelephas aequatorialis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Arecales |
| Family | Arecaceae |
| Genus | Phytelephas |
| Species | Phytelephas aequatorialis |
Similar in genus Phytelephas
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
