Jelly Palm (Butia capitata)

Hardiest of the "Feather Palms" it is grown extensively in the south where it and it's fruit are called Pindo. Hardy down to about 10 degrees F it has been grown as far north as North Carolina on the east coast and British Columbia on the west. Productive of delicious fruit that has an apple, mango or apricot flavor with tart tropical overtones. Good for fresh eating, jellies, jams and wine. Beautiful ornamental with giant silvery blue-green fronds and showy stout trunk that can reach 20 feet tall, though 12 to 15 is more common. Tough, easy to grow tree is drought tolerant and adaptable, but grows quicker with regular watering and a spring fertilization. Native of South America and hardy from zone 7 - 9.