Family: Arecaceae

Allagoptera arenaria (seashore palm, coco da praia) is a small, clumping palm native to coastal areas of Brazil. It is known for its attractive, feather-like fronds and its ability to tolerate sandy soils and salt spray, making it a popular choice for beachside landscapes and coastal gardens. This palm produces small, edible fruits that are sometimes used locally in food and beverages. Its compact growth habit and resilience to harsh coastal conditions make it an appealing ornamental plant for tropical and subtropical gardens.

In the Hawaiian Islands, Allagoptera arenaria is only found in cultivation and has not been observed naturalizing in the wild. While it currently poses no known threat to native ecosystems, care should be taken because, if it were to escape cultivation, it could potentially establish along beaches and coastal areas. Naturalization could alter dune ecosystems, compete with native vegetation, and impact habitat for native wildlife. Gardeners are encouraged to monitor fruiting palms and prevent seed dispersal beyond intended garden areas.

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Tolerates many soil conditions (and potentially able to exploit many different habitat types)
  
• Forms dense thickets in native range
  
• Self-compatible
  
• Viable seeds dispersed by frugivorous mammals
  
• Can spread by creeping rhizomes
  
• Tolerates and resprouts after fires

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of naturalization or invasiveness
  
• Unarmed (no spines)
  
• Edible fruit
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Landscaping and ornamental value
  
• Slow growing, and long time to maturity