Needle Palm Tree

Needle Palm Tree – Cold-Hardy Tropical Evergreen for Landscapes and Wet Gardens

Product Description:

• Scientific Name: Rhapidophyllum hystrix
• Common Name: Needle Palm
• Family: Arecaceae (Palm family)
• Growth Zones: 6–11
• Mature Height: 2–6 feet (0.6–1.8 meters)
• Mature Width: 5–10 feet (1.5–3 meters)
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained; tolerates clay or sandy soil
• Watering: Moderate; prefers evenly moist soil
• Temperature Tolerance: Extremely cold-hardy to –20°F (–29°C)

Key Features:

• One of the most cold-hardy palm trees in the world
• Compact, clumping evergreen with needle-like protective spines
• Creates a tropical look in cold climates and wetland gardens
• Excellent as a focal point in small gardens, patios, or borders
• Thrives with minimal care, drought-resistant once established

Care Tips:

• Light: Grows best in full sun to dappled shade
• Water: Keep soil moist; water regularly in hot weather
• Ventilation: Space adequately to ensure airflow and prevent mold
• Common Issues: Rarely affected by pests or diseases
• Pests: Generally pest-resistant; occasional scale or spider mites possible

Notes:

Native to the moist woodlands of the southeastern United States, the Needle Palm (Rhapidophyllum hystrix) is a rare gem among tropical-looking plants that survive cold winters. This compact evergreen palm thrives in zones as low as USDA 6 and brings lush, exotic texture to temperate and wetland gardens alike. With its spiny trunk base and fan-shaped fronds, it not only adds dramatic visual interest but also serves as a natural barrier or privacy screen. Needle Palm is ideal for low-maintenance landscaping, water features, and tropical-themed designs without the tropical climate. A resilient, easy-to-grow palm for adventurous gardeners.