The vegetative growth and yield of the Euterpe oleracea x E. edulis hybrid palms were compared to the parental population under two different shading conditions. In both conditions hybrid palms were superior to the parents in growth and yield. The hybrids were vigorous, precocious and had tillering capacity. In spite of the hybrid heterogeneity, they appeared to offer a great potential for upgrading heart of palm planting material in São Paulo State, Brazil.
heart of palm; interespecific hybrids; growth and yield