A stately feather palm with drooping feathers; it is native to South America. This plant is very popular in California because it can tolerate the dry desert conditions during the summer if it gets plenty of water (In it’s native habitat it grows in swampy areas.) I have read that the plants offered by growers are the descendents of seeds collected in subtropical areas of South America. This palm is reported to be able to survive brief exposures down to 25° F. The only problem is that once you expose any palm tree to cold, regardless of how hardy it is, IT WILL HAVE DAMAGE - it will take a year or two for it to recover. Always bring your plants inside on any night when the temperature is expected to be below 40° F. You should be able to enjoy them for much and maybe even all of the winter and into the next summer.

Note: This plant will handle temps in the mid 40’s with 25 mph plus winds very well.

Botanical Name: Syagrus romanzoffiana (This plant has also been known as Arecastrum romanzoffianum and Cocos plumosa.)

Zones: 10+

Where to buy this plant: You will need to contact your local nursery to find out if they sell Palm Trees or if they can special order them for you. You can also order palms through the mail, but expect freight charges to be at least $100.

Updated April 6, 2010