High Plateau Coconut Palm (Beccariophoenix alfredii) | seeds, 6 pcs.

TOLERATES LIGHT FROST | GERMINATES RELATIVELY EASILY FROM SEED

• Latin name: Beccariophoenix alfredii
• Danish names: Højlands kokospalme
  
• English names: High Plateau Coconut Palm
  

Beccariophoenix alfredii is a magnificent palm species native to the cooler highland regions of central Madagascar. It is among the most cold-tolerant feather palms and is especially valued for its classic, tropical appearance, which resembles the coconut palm – but with much better resilience to cooler climates. This makes it an attractive candidate for palm enthusiasts in temperate regions.

The palm forms a slender, upright trunk and a dense crown of long, arched, feathery leaves with stiff, green segments. The young leaves often have a silvery-green underside and provide an elegant and exotic look. Under ideal conditions, Beccariophoenix alfredii grows relatively quickly and can eventually reach 10–15 meters in height in its natural environment – though it grows significantly slower in a pot or in a northern climate.

It thrives best in full sun to light partial shade and requires well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Once established, the plant tolerates short-term temperatures down to about -5 °C – and in some cases slightly lower, especially if kept dry and sheltered. This makes it one of the most cold-tolerant palms with a tropical appearance. In Denmark, however, it should be grown in a large pot or a sheltered garden and overwintered frost-free during prolonged frost.

Germination from seed:

Seeds of Beccariophoenix alfredii germinate relatively easily, but patience is required. The seeds should first be soaked in lukewarm water for 2–3 days to soften the outer layer. Then, they are sown in a light, well-drained mix (e.g., coconut coir and perlite) and placed in a warm spot – ideally at 25–30 °C – and kept moist. The seeds typically germinate within 1–3 months, but some may take longer.

It is recommended to use a mini-greenhouse or a plastic bag over the pot to maintain high humidity and a stable temperature. Once the sprout appears, the plant should gradually be accustomed to more light and air, and transplanted into a deeper pot, as palms quickly develop long taproots.

Utility and use:

Beccariophoenix alfredii is grown primarily as an ornamental plant and has no commercial fruit production, but it is a botanical gem for those who want a palm with a classic tropical look that can also withstand light frost. It is well-suited for large pots on sunny terraces during the summer and for overwintering in frost-free rooms, orangeries, or greenhouses.

The palm is perfect for collectors and tropical-interested growers who want a magnificent and relatively hardy palm with a beautiful silhouette and exciting origins. Beccariophoenix alfredii is both a visual pleasure and a test of patience – but absolutely worth it.

- Feel free to read our article on germination of palm seeds