Quindio Wax Palm

Appearance

This palm species can grow to a height of 45 m —or rarely, even as high as 60 m. It is the tallest recorded monocot in the world. The trunk is cylindrical, smooth, light colored, covered with wax; leaf scars forming dark rings around the trunk. The leaves are dark green and grayish, 185–540 cm long, with a petiole up to 80 cm long. Fruits are globose and orange-red when ripe, 1.6–2 cm in diameter.

Naming

Palma de cera, palma de ramo.

Status

Populations of "Ceroxylon quindiuense" are threatened by habitat disturbance, overharvesting and diseases. The fruit was used as feed for cattle and pigs. The leaves were extensively used in the Catholic celebrations of Palm Sunday; such leaves coming from young individuals which were damaged to death. That activity has been reduced severely in recent years due to law enforcement and widespread campaign. Felling of "Ceroxylon quindiuense" palms to obtain wax from the trunk also is an activity still going on in Colombia and Peru. The palm is recognized as the national tree of Colombia, and since the implementation of Law 61 of 1985, it is legally a protected species in that country.

Habitat

It grows in large and dense populations along the central and eastern Andes of Colombia, with a disjunct distribution in the Andes of northern Peru. The elevational range of this species is between 2,000 and 3,100 m above sea level. It achieves a minimum reproductive age at 80 years. Wax palms provide habitats for many unique life forms, including endangered species such as the yellow-eared parrot.

Uses

The wax of the trunk was used to make candles, especially in the 19th century. The outer part of the stem of the palm has been used locally for building houses, and was used to build water supply systems for poor farmers. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant in Colombia and USA.