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Bismarck Palm |
The Bismarck Palm is another beautiful and desirable fan palm suitable for sub-tropical climates; although it can be grown as far north as Sarasota (freeze damage will occur, but the palm quickly recovers). Of the tribe Borasseae, and subfamily Corphoideae it is also known by the botanic name Bismarkia nobilis. Bismark Palms are native to Madagascar.
Plant Facts:
Common Name: Bismarck Palm
Botanical Name: Bismarkia nobilis
Subfamily: Corphoideae
Plant Type: Solitary Palm Tree
Origin: Madagascar (endangered in its native habitat)
Zones: 10 - 11
Height: 30 - 60'
Rate of Growth: Slow
Salt Tolerance: Moderate
Soil Requirements: Widely adaptable
Water Requirements: High drought tolerance
Nutritional Requirements: Moderate
Light Requirements: Moderate, high
Form: Solitary, massive palm. Canopy of 20-30 leaves.
Leaves: Costapalmate, induplicate, stiff and upright; divided to about 1/3 into approximately 20 segments.
Inflorescence: 4' long
Fruits: Brown
Pests or diseases: Nothing of major importance.
Uses: Massive specimen plant -- not for small yards.
Bad Habits: Very difficult to transplant except from containers..
Cost: $$ - $$$ -- reasonable to expensive
Propagation: Seed, germinates in 2 months or less
Sources: A-Z Encyclopedia of Garden Plants,
Tropical Gardening,
Betrock's Guide to Landscape Palms
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Last updated 06/03/08