Needle Palm (Rhapidophyllum Hystrix)

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Categorized as: Palm,Shrub,Tree

April 28, 2010 | 2782 Views | 0 Comments

The needle palm is generally considered to be the most cold-hardy palm available for the landscape. It is a slow-growing palm with a shrub-like form, and it usually does not form a large trunk. It is native to the coastal southeastern United States, from Mississippi to North and South Carolina.

Family: Arecaceae
Genus: Rhapidophyllum
Species: Hystrix
Cultivar: None Identified

Hardiness:

USDA Zone 6b: to -5 °F
USDA Zone 7a: to 0 °F
USDA Zone 7b: to 5 °F
USDA Zone 8a: to 10 °F
USDA Zone 8b: to 15 °F
USDA Zone 9a: to 20 °F
USDA Zone 9b: to 25 °F

Height:

4-6 ft.

Light Exposure:

10% to 40% Shade
40% to 60% Shade
60% to 80% Shade

Growth Rate:

Slow
Very Slow

The needle palm is easily hardy to zone 6; though it has been known to withstand temperatures as low as -20°F. It is susceptible to foliage damage and browning during cold winter conditions, especially when combined with harsh winds. Cold-hardiness will increase in the needle palm as it become larger and more established. Needle palms prefer partial to nearly full shade. In colder climates, full sun is better. In hot and humid climates, light shade is preferred. Mulch plants and water regularly until well-established in the landscape.