Family: Arecaceae or Palmae

Genus: Dictyosperma

Species: albumarmata

Common names: Hurricane palm, princess palm

General Description: The Princess Palm grows to over 30 feet and is very attractive. Its feathery palm leaves feature a white crown shaft. The species is variable and has several different colorful varieties.

This regal and elegant tree is also known as the Hurricane Palm. That name is very apt because the tree is able to withstand high winds. The Princess/Hurricane Palm is able to grow in tropical and subtropical landscapes, as long as there is no danger of frost.

The Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean lay claim to this hallmark palm that is stately and grand, a true tropical beauty. The Princess Palm is considered an essential component of a tropical or subtropical landscape by many garden designers.

Location: The Princess Palm Tree is indigenous to the Mascarene Islands (Mauritius, Reunion, Rodrigues, and Round Island) originally growing in forests on the Islands. Three species are attributed to these Islands: album, aureum and conjugatum.

Uses: The Princess Palm is almost extinct in these regions because of the high demand for the palm heart (Hearts of Palm) used widely in salads and fresh dishes. Also contributing to extinction of this tree is the replacement of forests with agriculture and grazing since the 17th century when humans began occupying the Islands. As a result, this beautiful tree is considered an endangered species.

Disclaimer: The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Any reference to medicinal use is not intended to treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease.