
(Chelyocarpus ulei)

Paraguay palm, Ulei palm, Dwarf ulei palm
Chelyocarpus ulei is a species of palm tree native to South America. It has a slender trunk that can grow up to 20 feet (6 meters) tall and is topped by a crown of large, feathery fronds. The plant produces small, black fruits that are edible but not widely consumed.
Height: 20-30 feet (6-9 meters), Spread: 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters)
Chelyocarpus ulei prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but will not thrive in deep shade.
Chelyocarpus ulei prefers high humidity levels. Mist the leaves regularly or place a humidifier nearby to increase humidity.
Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce feeding during the winter months.
Prune dead or damaged fronds as needed. Do not remove green fronds unless they are blocking light or causing other issues.
Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Not recommended for indoor growth.
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during the winter months.
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (16-29°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures but may suffer if exposed to frost.
Spring and summer
Moderate
9b-11
The fruit of the Chelyocarpus ulei is used to make a popular drink in Colombia called 'chicha de chontaduro'.