If you’re looking for a way to add a touch of tropical flair to your landscaping, but you live in a cooler climate, you may think that palm trees are out of the question. However, there is a solution that allows you to enjoy the beauty of palm trees even in cold climates: cold hardy palm trees.
Cold hardy palm trees are palm tree species that are able to survive in colder temperatures, typically down to 10-15 degrees Fahrenheit (-9 to -12 degrees Celsius). Unlike traditional palm trees, which are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions like Florida, cold hardy palm trees are able to thrive in a wider range of climates, making them a popular choice for landscaping in areas that experience colder winters.
In the following sections, we’ll explore the top 5 types of cold hardy palm trees and how to successfully cultivate these beautiful trees in your own yard or landscape. Happy reading! 🙂
Types of Cold Hardy Palm Trees
If you’re considering adding cold hardy palm trees to your landscaping, it’s important to know the different types of species available and their specific features and requirements. Here are six popular cold hardy palm trees to consider:
1. Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei)
The Windmill Palm is one of the most popular and recognizable cold hardy palm trees. It is native to the Himalayan Mountains and can grow up to 40 feet tall. The Windmill Palm features a slender trunk covered in brown fibers and large, fan-shaped leaves that grow in a circular pattern at the top of the tree. It is a slow-growing tree that prefers well-drained soil and can withstand temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius).
2. Needle Palm (Rhapidophyllum hystrix)
The Needle Palm is a hardy and adaptable palm tree that is native to the southeastern United States. It is a small tree that typically grows up to 6 feet tall and wide. The Needle Palm features sharp, needle-like leaves that grow from a compact trunk covered in brown fibers. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can withstand temperatures as low as -5 degrees Fahrenheit (-21 degrees Celsius). If temperatures get lower than that windmill palms can benefit from some winter protection, such as wrapping the trunk with burlap or providing a temporary cover.
3. Pindo Palm (Butia capitata)
The Pindo Palm, also known as the Jelly Palm, is a cold hardy palm tree that is native to South America. It can grow up to 20 feet tall and features a stout trunk covered in gray-brown fibers and large, feathery leaves that can grow up to 10 feet long. The Pindo Palm prefers well-drained soil and can withstand temperatures as low as 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-15 degrees Celsius).
I have grown the Pindo palm in several different landscapes, including residential and commercial properties. It is known for its ornamental fruit and attractive blue-green fronds. However, it is also susceptible to pests, such as the palm weevil, which can damage the trunk and cause the palm to die. To prevent pest infestations, I regularly inspect my pindo palms for signs of damage and apply a systemic insecticide as needed.
4. Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens)
The Saw Palmetto is a low-growing palm tree that is native to the southeastern United States (Florida). It typically grows up to 10 feet tall and features a dense clump of fan-shaped leaves that grow from a creeping stem. The Saw Palmetto is known for its medicinal properties and is often used to treat a range of ailments. It prefers well-drained soil and can withstand temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit (-18 degrees Celsius).
5. European Fan Palm (Chamaerops humilis)
With a similar look as the Mexican Fan Palm and California Fan Palm, the European Fan Palm is a slow-growing palm tree that is native to the Mediterranean region. It typically grows up to 10 feet tall and features multiple trunks covered in brown fibers and large, fan-shaped leaves that grow in a circular pattern. The European Fan Palm prefers well-drained soil and can withstand temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit (-12 degrees Celsius).
6. Bismarck Palm (Bismarckia nobilis)
The Bismarck Palm is a large and impressive palm tree that is native to Madagascar. It can grow up to 70 feet tall and features a thick, silver-gray trunk covered in diamond-shaped leaf scars and large, blue-green leaves that can grow up to 10 feet long. The Bismarck Palm prefers well-drained soil and can withstand temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6 degrees Celsius).
When selecting a cold hardy palm tree for your landscaping, it’s important to consider factors such as size, soil requirements, and temperature tolerance. Be sure to choose a species that is well-suited to your climate and that will thrive in your specific growing conditions. Furthermore, you should take note of the growth rate before choosing any palm. Here is an overview about the fastest growing palm trees. With the right care and attention, cold hardy palm trees can add a touch of tropical beauty to your outdoor space, no matter where you live.
Top Cold Hardy Palm Trees in the US - Quick Overview
| Palm Tree Species | Max Height | Growth Rate | Cold Hardiness | Light Requirements | Soil Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Windmill Palm |
20-30 ft |
Moderate |
Zone 7 (-18°C) |
Full sun to partial shade |
Well-drained soil, slightly acidic |
|
Needle Palm |
5-10 ft |
Slow |
Zone 6 (-23°C) |
Full sun to partial shade |
Well-drained soil, acidic |
|
Saw Palmetto |
6-10 ft |
Slow |
Zone 8 (-12°C) |
Full sun to partial shade |
Sandy or loamy, well-drained soil |
|
Pindo Palm |
15-20 ft |
Moderate |
Zone 7 (-18°C) |
Full sun to partial shade |
Well-drained soil, drought-tolerant |
|
European Fan Palm |
8-15 ft |
Slow |
Zone 8 (-12°C) |
Full sun to partial shade |
Well-drained soil, drought-tolerant |
|
Bismarck Palm |
30-60 ft |
Moderate |
Zone 9 (-6°C) |
Full sun |
Well-drained soil, slightly acidic |
*Cold hardiness refers to the lowest temperature that the palm tree can tolerate without significant damage. All palm trees listed are suitable for growing in the United States.
Pro tip: In case you are standing in front of a palm and are wondering which species it is, check out these palm tree identification apps.
Tips for Growing Cold Hardy Palm Trees
While cold hardy palm trees can thrive in a range of climates, proper site selection, soil preparation, and care are essential for their successful growth. Here are some tips for growing and maintaining cold hardy palm trees:
1. Site Selection & Soil Preparation
When selecting a site for planting a cold hardy palm tree, it is important to choose a location that provides adequate sunlight and protection from strong winds. These trees prefer well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH, and do best in areas with good air circulation.
Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris and adding organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, to improve soil structure and fertility. This will enable the palm roots to grow as optimal as possible.
Here are the most popular palm tree landacping ideas.
2. Planting & Maintenance Tips
- Plant in well-draining soil: Cold hardy palm trees prefer soil that is well-draining to avoid waterlogged roots. Ensure the soil has good drainage before planting.
- Water regularly: Cold hardy palm trees require consistent moisture, especially during the growing season. Water regularly to ensure the soil is consistently moist.
- Fertilize appropriately: Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer in small amounts regularly during the growing season.
- Mulch around the base of the tree: Mulching helps to retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth. Use a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, but keep it away from the trunk.
- Prune as necessary: Remove dead, damaged, or diseased fronds regularly to maintain the health of the tree. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the fronds at a time.
- Protect from extreme cold: While cold hardy palm trees can withstand colder temperatures than other palm species, they still require protection from extreme cold. Cover the tree with frost blankets or burlap during cold snaps, and avoid pruning during the winter months.
3. Common Challenges & Solutions
Despite their hardiness, cold hardy palm trees can face a range of challenges, such as pests and diseases. Some common pests that affect palm trees include spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Certain diseases, such as fusarium wilt and lethal yellowing, can also affect palm trees. These diseases can be prevented by selecting disease-resistant varieties and maintaining proper soil and plant health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cold hardy palm trees are an excellent addition to any landscape design in colder areas, offering both aesthetic appeal and a range of environmental benefits. From the windmill palm to the pindo palm, there are several species to choose from, each with their own unique features, requirements, and costs that you need to consider to successfully grow them.
FAQ
What is the most cold tolerant palm tree?
The most cold-tolerant palm tree is the Needle Palm (Rhapidophyllum hystrix), which is native to the southeastern United States. It can survive temperatures as low as -5°F (-21°C) and is one of the few palm trees that can grow in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a. The Needle Palm has a compact growth habit and can reach a height of 6 to 8 feet (1.8 to 2.4 meters) with a spread of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters). Its leaves are dark green and resemble holly leaves, hence its common name. The Needle Palm prefers partial to full shade and well-draining soil. While it may be slow-growing, it is a hardy and attractive option for gardeners and lansdcapers in colder climates looking to add a tropical touch to their landscapes.
What palm tree grows in the cold?
Several palm tree species can grow in colder climates, but the most notable are those that are cold-hardy and can withstand freezing temperatures. Some examples of palm trees that can grow in the cold include the Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei), the European Fan Palm (Chamaerops humilis), the Saw Palmetto (Serenoa repens), and the Needle Palm (Rhapidophyllum hystrix). These palm trees are able to tolerate cold temperatures and can survive in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 or lower. While they may not thrive in extreme cold, they are hardy enough to withstand harsh winter conditions and continue to grow and thrive in the spring and summer. Gardeners in colder climates who are interested in adding a tropical touch to their landscapes should consider these cold-hardy palm tree species.
Can any palm trees grow in Michigan?
No, most palm tree species can’t survive the harsh winter conditions in Michigan. However, some cold-hardy palm trees such as the Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei) and the Needle Palm (Rhapidophyllum hystrix) can grow in Michigan, particularly in the southern regions. These palm trees can tolerate colder temperatures and can survive in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 or lower.
Can palm trees survive in Maryland?
Yes, certain cold-hardy palm tree species can survive in Maryland, especially in the southern regions of the state. Palm trees such as the Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei), the European Fan Palm (Chamaerops humilis), and the Needle Palm (Rhapidophyllum hystrix) can tolerate colder temperatures and can survive in USDA Hardiness Zones 7 or lower.
