Prestoea acuminata, commonly known as the Mountain Cabbage Palm, is a palm tree native to the understory of wet montane forests, particularly in Central America, the West Indies, and South America. It is an evergreen perennial herb that can reach heights of up to 33 feet (10 meters) with a slender, smooth trunk. The leaves are pinnate, arching, and can grow several feet long, giving the palm an elegant appearance. The inflorescences bear small, inconspicuous flowers, followed by red or purple fruits that are attractive to wildlife.

The Mountain Cabbage Palm is valued for its adaptability to a variety of tropical climates and its use in reforestation projects due to its fast growth rate. In cultivation, it is appreciated for its ornamental qualities, adding a tropical flair to landscapes. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of light conditions from partial shade to full sun. While it was once overharvested for palmito, particularly in Ecuador, it is now less common in the wild. Gardeners should be aware that it requires consistent moisture and protection from cold temperatures. It is not known to have aggressive roots or significant disease problems, but it may be susceptible to pests typical of palms.CC BY-SA 4.0