The Royal Palm Tree is the most recognizable and the most attractive palm tree in the world. It is a truly magnificent, aristocratic and very stately tree.

The Royal Palm is placed in the genus Roystonea of the Arecaceae family and the tribe Roystoneae. This genus was named for Roy Stone, a U.S Army general during the American Civil War. There are approximately 10 different palm species belonging to the genus Roystonea. All species of this genus are native to the Caribbean basin, Florida, Central and South America. They are distinguished by tall, smooth, columnar trunks and large pinnate fronds. All species are commonly known as the royal palms.

The Royal Palm tree, scientific name Roystonea Regia (synonym: Roystonea Elata), also known as the Florida royal palm, Cuban royal palm is native to Florida, Mexico and the Caribbean Islands.

Roystonea Elata is widely planted as an ornamental tree throughout the tropics and subtropics. Royal palms are common in the Caribbean, Florida, the adjacent coasts of Central and South America.

Roystonea Regia is the Cuba National Tree: “La Palma Real”. It is present everywhere at the Cuban country side. It is the symbol of the Cuban people.

In these areas the Royal palm tree is not only a popular ornamental, but also an important source for construction, thatch, lifestock feed, medicine and cooking oil.

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