Jubaea Chilensis (Chilean Wine Palm, Coquito Palm) is the sole living species in the genus Jubaea in the palm family Arecaceae. It is native to southwestern South America, where it is endemic to a small area of central Chile. This Incredible Hulk of the palm world, Jubaea chilensis, dominates the landscape with his thick smooth, muscular trunk that grows to over 3 ft (1 m) in diameter and soars to heights of 80 ft (24.4 m). The trunk is gray with leaf scars. In older specimens, the trunk typically constricts near the top to form the brute's "shoulders" upon which rest a proportionally small "head" that is composed of densely packed (50) pinnate (feather-shaped) leaves. These are held stiffly erect on short stems to form a crown that is about 30 ft (9.1 m) in diameter. The leaves grow 12-16 ft (3.7-4.9 m) in length and are a darker green on top with the lower surfaces a dull grey green. Small purple flowers are borne on 4 ft (1.2 m) inflorescence (flower stalk) that grows hidden among the leaves. The flowers are in groups of 2 male flowers for 1 female. Within the fruits are smooth tan seeds that resemble tiny coconuts. These have similar oily white flesh (endosperm) that tastes like them too! This palm will not bear flowers before it is 40 to 60 years old. The yellow round fruit, called Coquitos, are about 2in in diameter (5 cm) and the round seed, about 1in in diameter (2.5 cm). In areas where it can be grown, coquito palm is superb as a specimen plant where it can serve as a spectacular focal point on a sweep of lawn. Assembled into burly groupings, the coquito palm strikes an awesome presence, creating a fantasy grove of huge pillared trunks. Hardiness zones: 8-10 (-10c/15f, 1c/35f). Jubaea Chilensis does best in full sun and a well-drained soil. In cultivation it has been known to tolerate at least down to 5 ø F (-15ø C). It is undoubtedly well suited to temperate and subtropical climates. It is highly drought tolerant but will also do well in cold and humid condition. In the wild, the tree lives almost exclusively on the steep slopes of ravines. This is not a palm for the seaside as it does not tolerate salt spray. The palm?s juice has long been tapped in Chile. The juice is being used in the production of wine (therefore its name). Also, this palm is said to be a slow grower till about 15 years. At this age, growth accelerates.