The Mountain Coconut or Quito palm originates from Ecuador, growing at high altitude within the elevated valleys of the Andes mountains and is also found in Colombia and Peru. Another botanical gem for NZ after decades of earlier research and visits to South America by Dick Endt.

A purchase fifteen years ago from their beautiful property and barely one metre tall. Now, around six metres tall and impressive in stature.

A beautiful palm for larger gardens and is well suited to the Auckland climate and can be grown successfully within the Northern NZ climate zone. Sheltered from prevailing winds when first planted in the garden, watered when required and fed each spring for the first few years or so. After such time, it was basically left to its own devices apart from a good layer of compost to the dripline each year. The Mountain Coconut palm is very tolerant of wind and as there is minimal ‘drop’, of which is easily broken down then added to the garden mulch, is a very tidy palm in my book and does produce little edible coconuts.

The foliage of this palm can provide a nice textural contrast to other plants in a garden. Planted in odd numbers, it would make an impressive layer to the rear of a lush tropical style garden.

Be patient – it’s worth the wait.