How to prune caryota obtusa

Any time; remove fronds once fully brown. Sever dead fronds as close to the trunk as possible without damaging the trunk tissue. For large specimens outdoors, use a pruning saw. Wear gloves — the sap and fruit can cause skin irritation.

As needed throughout the year. Caryota obtusa (Giant Fishtail Palm) requires only the removal of dead, brown fronds. Each frond dies naturally after the trunk section above it flowers and fruits (the palm is monocarpic per stem). Cut spent fronds flush with the trunk using a sharp saw or loppers. No shaping or heading cuts are beneficial.

Sever dead fronds as close to the trunk as possible without damaging the trunk tissue. For large specimens outdoors, use a pruning saw. Wear gloves — the sap and fruit can cause skin irritation.