Chrysalidocarpus prestonianus (Dypsis prestonianus, Big Curly Palm) - 100 Seeds - Bulk

Chrysalidocarpus prestonianus, widely known in cultivation by its former botanical name Dypsis prestoniana and commonly called Big Curly Palm, is a large solitary palm native to Madagascar.

This impressive species develops a substantial single trunk topped by a broad crown of large, arching pinnate leaves. The leaflets are arranged in multiple planes, creating the full, plumose appearance responsible for the familiar “Big Curly” name.

In cultivation, Chrysalidocarpus prestonianus is valued for its strong landscape presence and has performed particularly well in mild subtropical climates, including coastal Southern California. Established specimens have shown cold tolerance to approximately 28–30°F under suitable growing conditions.

Its large scale, distinctive foliage, and Madagascar origin make Big Curly Palm particularly desirable for specialty palm collections, nursery production, botanical collections, and subtropical specimen plantings.

Key Specifications

• Current Botanical Name: Chrysalidocarpus prestonianus
• Botanical Synonym: Dypsis prestoniana
• Common Names: Big Curly Palm, Big Curly, Tavilo
• Family: Arecaceae
• Native Range: Central-eastern and southeastern Madagascar
• Plant Type: Evergreen solitary palm
• Growth Habit: Single-trunk, upright palm
• Mature Height: Approximately 25–40 feet in cultivation
• Foliage: Large, arching, pinnate to plumose green leaves
• Cold Tolerance: Established palms have tolerated approximately 28–30°F under suitable conditions
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade once established
• Conservation Status: Vulnerable
• Landscape Use: Specimen plantings, palm collections, botanical collections, specialty gardens, and subtropical landscapes