Roystonea

Roystonea is a genus of monocotyledonous plants in the palm family known as Arecaceae. These palms are native to the Caribbean, southern Florida, and northern South America. The genus is named in honor of Roy Stone, an American engineer who worked in Puerto Rico. Commonly referred to as royal palms, these trees are characterized by their tall, slender, unbranched trunks that are often swollen in the middle.

The most distinctive feature of Roystonea is its crown of large, pinnate leaves. These leaves can be quite substantial, contributing to the majestic appearance of the trees. The inflorescences are borne below the crownshaft and are typically branched. The fruits are typically small, oval to elliptical, and range in color from green to purple or black when ripe. Royal palms are fast-growing and are often cultivated for ornamental purposes due to their striking aesthetic. They are frequently planted along avenues, in parks, and in gardens in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Their large size and symmetrical form make them a popular choice for landscaping.

Species within Roystonea are important components of their native ecosystems, providing habitat and food for various wildlife. They are also culturally significant in some Caribbean islands, where they are sometimes referred to as the "tree of life" due to their numerous uses, including for timber, thatch, and oil. While several species are recognized, the exact number can vary depending on taxonomic interpretation. Some of the most well-known species include Roystonea regia, Roystonea oleracea, and Roystonea borinquena.