Alligators, beautiful beaches, and many types of palm trees are just a few of the things that make Florida unique. The climate is not only perfect to enjoy the beach year-round it is ideal for growing palm trees. Some types of palms trees are easier to care for than others. There are over 2,500 varieties of palm trees in the world and nearly every one of them can be grown here in Florida. They come in all shapes and sizes from the smallest reaching around 4 feet tall up to the massive palms that can reach well above 50 feet.
Let’s look at some of the more unique palm trees that call Florida home.
Dwarf Palmetto 4-6 ft
This small evergreen palm grows between 4 and 6 feet in height and is one of the hardiest palms. They do best in wet and poorly drained soils with full sun or partial shade. After the Dwarf Palmetto is fully established, they are very drought resistant and make a great accent plant for any house. The large fan shaped leaves reach up to three feet in diameter to create a full crown.
Parlor Palm 2-16ft
The Parlor Palm can grow up to 16 feet in height but is often used as an indoor plant. When potted these palms reach around two to six feet in height. They do best in bright indirect light and well-drained soil. This palm grows in clumps and has a lightly textured foliage that covers its thin trunks.
Lady Palm 10-12 ft
The lady palm is another unique palm tree. It is a slow grower and reaches around 8 to 10 feet in height. They do well in both sun and shade, however in shady areas they will maintain a beautiful deep green color. Multiple thin trunks are topped with fronds that resemble tiny green umbrellas which grow to create a full, layered appearance. Because they grow slowly, they are easy to maintain while adding a tropical touch to your landscape.
Fishtail Palm up to 24 ft
The fishtail palm is named after the appearance of its leaves which look like small fish tails. These leaves grow on fronds to form thick layers. They grow to be very full and are great for use as a privacy screen or as an alternative to bamboo gardens. Although these plants do well in both full sun and partial shade, they do grow faster when exposed to full sun.
Foxtail Palm up to 30 ft
The foxtail palm is another popular Florida palm tree. It’s rounded fronds arch downward and resemble a foxtail. These are available both in a single or a multi trunk options to compliment your landscape. These trees are fast growers which is perfect for those looking to grow a beautiful palm tree quickly. Once established they are relatively drought resistant and prefer lots of sunshine.
Red Sealing Wax Palm 35-45 ft
The red sealing wax palm is a unique palm tree with beautiful red stalks. Topped with an emerald green frond they are instantly recognizable. Reaching heights up to 30 feet they grow well in swamplands and are even tolerant of standing water. However, these palms are not very hardy and can only survive short drops into the 40’s. They do best in locations that provide year-round temperatures of around 75 to 85 degrees.
Coconut Palm 40-60 ft
Coconut palms are one of the most iconic palm trees around. Their long, curved trunks reach between 40 and 60 feet in height. Due to their salt tolerance, they thrive along the sandy soils of the beach. These types palm trees are sensitive to the cold, so they grow best in warmer climates with well drained sandy soil.
So Many Types of Palm Trees
With so many different varieties of palm trees adding something unique to your landscape is easy. The most difficult part can be choosing what variety will work in your climate and complement your home the best. That’s where we come in, we can help guide you through the nearly endless options to select the best palm trees for you.
You don’t need to know everything about what works in your yard, Give Beautiful Boundaries a call or complete our online request. We will schedule a time convenient for you to review your current yard, suggestions based on your desired work and upkeep. Ask around, you will find that we are the local leader in all things landscaping. Some of the items we install includes pavers, build patios, cut grass, design and install landscaping including sprinkler systems. We look forward to getting to know you!
