Puerto Rican royal palm (Roystonea borinquena)
Care, watering, light and tips for Puerto Rican royal palm on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Arecaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 15–40 °C
About Puerto Rican royal palm
The Roystonea borinquena, or Puerto Rico Royal Palm, is a majestic palm native to the Caribbean, characterized by its smooth, grey, columnar trunk and its crown of large, pinnate leaves. It is ideal for adding an elegant and tropical touch to large gardens, avenues, or parks, where its imposing size can be fully appreciated.
Native range
Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Islands
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal growth and well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Watering should be regular and abundant, especially in hot and dry climates, ensuring the substrate remains moist but not waterlogged. Avoid transplanting mature specimens, as they are very sensitive to root disturbance; instead, plant them in their final location when they are still young.
How to save a dying Puerto Rican royal palm
- Warning signs
- Lower leaves yellowing and dropping prematurely, dry tips. Dull foliage or stunted growth.
- First aid
- Check drainage and watering. Ensure full sun and space. Fertilize with potassium if deficient.
- What kills it
- Insufficient watering or too much shade. Poor or compacted soil. Lack of root space.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if corrected quickly. Requires full sun and consistent moisture conditions.