Butia capitata
 

The very hardy feather palm Butia capitata can be found in several Scandinavian gardens today. The palm appreciates mild winters, but manages low temperatures (down to -10°C). Established individuals can handle even lower temperatures. But frost over long time, can become a problem. Southwestern Norway, Denmark and southwestern Sweden are areas that should provide enough summer heat for some growth.

Butia capitata handles areas with high humidity, like Scandinavia, even though it is native to the dry steppes of South-America. It grows willingly in British Columbia and England, which are places known for not having arid conditions. The palm loves sun and light, and should therefore be planted in a sun-exposed corner of the garden. Many individuals of Butia capitata have withered because of too much shadow. Butia capitata grows best in soil where sand represent the dominating part.
 

Like Chamaerops humilis, Butia capitata is a palm that show great diversity in leaf colour. The leaves can range in colour from light green to grey. The reason for the colour differences has not been documented properly. However, some reports are saying that the leaf colour is a result of how much sunlight the palm is exposed to. Few specimen reach 5 metres in height. The speed of growth is the same as with Phoenix canariensis the first couple of metres. The trunk can reach over ½ metre in width.

Small yellow fruits may occur on Butia capitata.