Brahea armata

Brahea armata S. Watson

Family: Arecaceae

Common name: Mexican blue palm

Brahea armata is a species native to Mexico and California. It is characterized by a trunk that can reach a height of up to 15 meters, topped with bluish-green leaves that are divided into fan-shaped segments. Inflorescences can reach a length of 6 meters and are composed of small cream or yellowish-white flowers. Fruits are dark and more or less rounded in shape.

This hardy plant is mainly used for ornamental purposes and was introduced to parks and gardens in the Mediterranean region in the late 19th century.

The genus name, Brahea, is dedicated to the Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe (1546-1601), while the specific epithet, armata, refers to the robust spines present on the leaf stalks.