ADONIDIA MERILLII

Botanical Name: Adonidia merrillii
Common Names: Christmas Palm, Manila Palm
Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soils; prefers slightly acidic conditions
Water Needs: Moderate; requires consistent moisture but tolerates short dry periods once established
Foliage: Graceful, pinnate fronds forming a symmetrical crown atop a smooth, slender gray trunk
Flowers: Creamy-white flowers appear in clusters, followed by bright red fruits resembling holiday ornaments
Growth Rate: Moderate

Uses:

Ornamental Palm:
Adonidia merrillii is widely admired for its elegant form and festive red fruits, making it a favorite in tropical landscapes, entryways, and poolside plantings.

Tropical Accent Plant:
Ideal for small gardens or container culture, it offers a lush, exotic aesthetic in both residential and commercial settings.

Holiday Appeal:
Its vibrant red fruits often appear around Christmas, giving rise to its common name and making it a decorative feature during the festive season.

Benefits:

Compact Size: Perfect for urban gardens or smaller spaces where a full-sized palm would be too large.

Tropical Elegance: Adds vertical interest and a resort-like atmosphere to landscapes year-round.

Low Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning and is relatively pest-resistant when grown in the right conditions.

Seasonal Interest: The red fruits provide a splash of color and charm, especially in winter months.

Versatile Planting Options: Can be grown in the ground or in large containers for patios, balconies, or indoor atriums in warm climates.

Adonidia merrillii is a graceful and manageable palm that brings a festive flair and refined beauty to tropical and subtropical landscapes. With its smooth trunk, lush fronds, and holiday-colored fruit, it is an ideal choice for adding charm and structure to sunny outdoor spaces.