Biology

A hardy species, the barbel palm is able to withstand the strong winds that occur in the upland regions where it grows, and can tolerate light frosts (2) (3). The young, newly emerging leaves, together with the succulent part at the top of the stem, are commonly known as palm heart or palm cabbage, and are greatly appreciated as a culinary delicacy. In addition, the roots of the barbel palm are used medicinally as a diuretic (2).