Doub Palm

hyphaene coriacea

Also known as: ["Bismarckia palm","Sago palm"]

Family: Arecaceae Genus: Hyphaene Category: Trees

Overview

A species of flowering plant in the palm family Arecaceae, native to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Liliopsida
Order: Arecales
Family: Arecaceae
Genus: Hyphaene
Botanical Name: Hyphaene coriacea

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Trees
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden in warm, sheltered spot or large indoor container
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining mix of cactus soil, perlite, and a small amount of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than 20% of foliage at once.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates full sun if acclimated gradually.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate to direct sun slowly over weeks; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on light intensity.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves with brown tips indicate overwatering; stunted growth suggests poor drainage or compacted soil.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid dark corners.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, every 3–4 weeks in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use pots with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.

Avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent warmth; protect from sudden temperature swings.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during active growth with balanced fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of suckers; seeds are viable but slower.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (75–85°F), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite (1:1 ratio).

Hormone

Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.

Timeline

Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut fronds at the base; trim only dead or yellowing parts; avoid cutting healthy growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain shape and health; encourage new growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; dispose of clippings; inspect for pests.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Prepare new pot; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; allow soil to dry between waterings.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with chunky materials.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves (cold stress); leaf drop or brown tips (heat stress).

Cold Stress

Growth slows; roots become susceptible to rot; leaves may turn yellow or drop.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pot with bubble wrap; avoid overwatering.

Hot Stress

Wilting despite moist soil; leaf scorch; reduced vigor.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Hyphaene coriacea can indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Hyphaene coriacea may be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Hyphaene coriacea can be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Hyphaene coriacea due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Hyphaene coriacea is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor pets as with any plant, but no specific precautions are necessary.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Hyphaene coriacea is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor pets as with any plant, but no specific precautions are necessary.
Humans
Non-toxic

Hyphaene coriacea is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. The plant is often utilized for its fibrous materials and potential food sources without reported adverse effects.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Handle with standard care as with any plant material.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Hyphaene coriacea toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data to determine toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water this palm?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.

Q: Does this palm require full sun?

A: It thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Quick Reference
Family: Arecaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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