Hemithrinax ekmaniana

One of the rarest of palms, grows on three small mogotes (limestone outcrops) in Cuba. With its small crown of round, densely packed fan leaves, it resembles a yucca or miniature petticoat palm when young. It ultimately loses its lower leaves leaving it with a rounded crown with a narrow 2 inch stem resembling a lollipop. Leaves are deep green above and silvery blue beneath. White fruits are ca. 1/2 inch in diameter. Palms are extremely slow growing, preferring full sun, and well-drained alkaline soils.

Weight: 0.4 oz.