Chilean Wine Palm
jubaea chilensis
Also known as: ["Molle","Palma Chilena","Chilean Palm"]
Overview
A large, slow-growing, evergreen palm native to central Chile, known for its thick trunk and pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["cold hardy","slow growing","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Arecales |
| Family: | Arecaceae |
| Genus: | Jubaea |
| Botanical Name: | Jubaea chilensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a spacious area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12 to 38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after storm damage.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may grow taller and weaker in less light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to full sun gradually over 1–2 weeks to prevent leaf burn. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Indoor placement requires a very bright, sunny window or supplemental grow lights.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatechallenging
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate regularly for even growth; avoid sudden light changes; provide shade during extreme heat.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Prefers 50–85°F (10–29°C). Hardy to 0°F (-18°C) but thrives in warm, dry climates. Avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below 20°F (-7°C).
Protect from frost; water deeply in heat; avoid sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization; water before and after feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Seed (rarely offsets).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Soak seeds overnight.
- Plant 1 inch deep.
- Keep warm and moist.
- Transplant when seedlings are established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are warm and stable.
Environment
Warm (70–85°F), bright indirect light, and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or cactus mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not applicable for seeds.
Timeline
Germination can take 3–6 months; seedlings grow very slowly.
Tools Needed
Seed tray, well-draining mix, plastic wrap (for humidity), watering can.
Quick Tips
Be patient with germination; use bottom heat if possible; protect seedlings from cold.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut fronds at the base using clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged fronds to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger fronds), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut cleanly; remove only dead/damaged fronds; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 2–3 inches larger in diameter if repotting is necessary.
Method
Use a well-draining mix; ensure a large pot with drainage holes; handle roots gently.
Suggestions
Not typically repotted due to its large size. Container-grown plants may need repotting every 3–5 years if root-bound.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with a finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Leaves may droop or turn brown; trunk can develop cracks in severe cold. Growth slows or halts below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; cover with frost cloth during freezes; avoid wet soil in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in extreme heat above 95°F (35°C).
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring/summer; dilute if needed; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring. Apply once in early spring and once mid-summer at half strength. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicJubaea chilensis is not considered toxic to cats. The fruit and sap are not known to cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicJubaea chilensis is not considered toxic to dogs. The fruit and sap are not known to cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicJubaea chilensis, commonly known as the Chilean wine palm, is not considered toxic to humans. The sap of the plant is traditionally used to make palm syrup and wine, and the fruit is edible.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Chilean Wine Palm toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How cold hardy is Jubaea chilensis?
A: It is highly cold hardy, tolerating temperatures down to -12°C.
Q: Does the Chilean Wine Palm produce edible fruit?
A: Yes, it produces sweet, edible fruit, though harvesting is difficult due to the tree's height.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Arecaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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