| 11 June 2024

This page contains information about Cocos Palm tree removal and pruning. For more information about tree removal you can read our tree removal guide.

The Cocos Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana) is native to South America and an invasive species in Australia. It was first introduced in the 1970’s and has been used extensively in Sydney landscaping.

Cocos Palm Identification

  • Cocos Palm is a fast growing, single stem tree with an average mature height of 12m. Occasionally reaching as tall as 20m.
  • It has a grey trunk with rings, and a diameter of 20-40cm.
  • The crown has 7-25 palm fronds (leaves) each with a thick spine that extends up to 5m.
  • Each frond carries 300-500 leaflets in clusters of 2-7, giving it a feather-like appearance.
  • It has yellow to orange egg-shape fruits, 2-3cm long and 1-2cm wide, growing in large hanging clusters.

Pruning & Maintenance

A well maintained Cocos Palm is an attractive feature. Which is perhaps why it became so popular with Sydney landscapers and property owners.

It does however require a lot of maintenance. It has large clusters of fruits that need regularly pruning. If left unattended, rotten fruit and dead fronds hang from the tree, giving it an untidy look.

Its fruit is especially problematic. Falling fruit pose a hazard, creates mess and attracts pests. Flying Foxes are attracted to the fruits, yet find the Palms leaves difficult to navigate, which can result in injury.

For some property owners the maintenance burden is more hassle than it is worth. Many choose to remove or replace the tree with a native or low maintenance palm.

Cocos Palm Tree Removal

Cocos Palm is listed as a weed in NSW. It propagates easily and is fast growing. Forcing native plants to compete as it invades local habitats.

Before you remove your Cocos Palm, check to see if you need a permit. Your LGA controls the removal of trees on private property.

The Cocos Palm is often listed on the LGA’s tree exempt list. Which means it can often be removed without a permit. Saving you time and expense.

If you want to remove your tree, speak to our Arborist. We’ll be able to tell you what restrictions apply in your LGA. Call or submit a contact form today for more information.