Butia capitata, commonly known as jelly palm, is a single-trunked palm tree with large, long leaves. The stiff leaves have a featherlike appearance with thorns along the edge of each leaf petiole.

Walnut Creek’s Ruth Bancroft is a national authority on drought-resistant gardening. Twice a month, she and her staff share their knowledge with Times readers. A COUPLE OF months ago, this column was ...

PLANTING PALM TREES: If you want to plant palms in your landscape, the best time is May through August. Palms establish best when planted into warm soil. Select hardier palms that survive severe ...