Description
Brahea brandegeei, commonly known as the San José hesper palm, is a medium to tall palm that can grow up to 12–18 meters (40–60 feet) in height. It has a slender trunk often marked with old leaf scars and is topped with a crown of stiff, fan-shaped fronds that measure 1–1.5 meters (3–5 feet) across. The fronds are bluish-green, creating a striking contrast in arid landscapes. This palm produces long, arching flower stalks bearing creamy-white flowers, followed by small, round fruits.
Native to the arid regions of Baja California Sur, Mexico, the San José hesper palm thrives in well-drained soils and prefers full sun. It is exceptionally drought-tolerant and wind-resistant, making it ideal for dry and exposed environments. This palm can withstand cold temperatures down to about – 5°C (23°F), making it suitable for xeriscaping and landscapes in subtropical and mild temperate climates.