A native of the Canary Islands, off the coast of North-east Africa. It is one of hardiest species of palms and most recognizable palm in the world. They are also found in Brazil, Paraguay northern Argentina and warmer areas in Western USA..
Located in Zone B of the Secret Garden, it is classed as an accent plant in warm temperate zones.
Also known as the Pineapple Palm or the Canary Palm, it has a stout, roundish trunk with a crown of arching dark green feather fronds. The trunk is decorated by leaf scars but in this case, not too clearly seen as some parasitic ferns have settled themselves onto the hulk.
This species is known to grow up to 60 feet tall and its fronds up to 18 feet long, hence, it's no child's play for the faint hearted gardener or small yards. It's stately stature and pride of place are more suited for presidential lawns or huge open spaces for accent landscaping.
attractive pinnate fronds
The lower petioles have long, stiff, menacing spines (3-5 inches long). So one ought to beware when handling/pruning the fronds.
Can vouch for its non-popularity here in Malaysia. Quite obviously, its massive structure and dangerous spines are off putting for home gardeners and landscaping agents coping with space constraints in the city. Nevertheless, there is still a major park and even remotely possible, the boulevard of the royal palace to sight... who knows?
We have one of these on the property and I can attest to the spines causing bodily damage. I was digging a hole near it and fell with one of those spines going into my skin....ouch! However it is a beautiful plant to have around and it's far out of reach for those unsuspecting passerbys:)
ReplyDeleteHi roherbot... thank you for sharing your experience! Hopeful there was no adverse skin reaction. Must say, I am not a great fan of these needles:)
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