Zombia antillarum – The Zombia Palm (commonly known as the zombie palm)

Zombia antillarum – The Zombia Palm (Zombie Palm)

Meet the Zombia Palm (Zombia antillarum), also widely known as the Zombie Palm — a rare and rugged beauty native to the island of Hispaniola in the Caribbean. This unique palm belongs to the Arecaceae family and is instantly recognizable by its spiny, armored trunk and stiff, fan-shaped fronds. Once used in traditional fencing and thatching, its dramatic form now makes it a coveted statement palm for collectors and landscape enthusiasts alike.

✨ Why You'll Love It

• A rare palm native to the Caribbean, seldom found in cultivation.
• Known both as Zombia Palm and Zombie Palm, giving it an unforgettable identity.
• Distinctive spiny trunk adds dramatic character and natural protection.
• Fan-shaped fronds that stay upright, giving a bold architectural look.
• Excellent for collectors of unusual or endemic tropical plants.

🌱 Care Guide

• Light: Thrives in full sun but can handle partial shade when young.
• Water: Prefers moderate watering—allow soil to dry slightly between waterings. Drought tolerant once established.
• Soil: Well-draining sandy or rocky soil mimics its native habitat.
• Temperature: Loves warmth and is cold sensitive; protect from frost.
• Growth: Slow to moderate grower, eventually forming a clumping habit with multiple trunks.
• Hardiness: USDA Zones 10–11.

🌴 Placement & Uses

The Zombia Palm (Zombie Palm) is perfect for tropical gardens, xeriscapes, or as a dramatic specimen palm. Its spiny trunk adds both beauty and natural security, while its cultural history in the Caribbean makes it a living piece of island heritage.

Bring home the Zombia Palm — also known as the Zombie Palm — and add a true Caribbean rarity to your tropical plant collection. 🌿