the genus
RHAPIDOPHYLLUM

From the Greek “ rhapidos ”, a needle, and “ phyllon ”, a leaf, a reference to the numerous spines that appear from the trunk at the base of the leaves.

Subfamily: Coryphoideae
Tribe:Corypheae
Subtribe: Thrinacinae

The subtribe includes 14 related genera such as Trachycarpus, Chamaerops, Thrinax, Rhapis, etc.

The genus Rhapidophyllum contains only one species, the Needle Palm, (R. hystrix), native to humus-rich woodlands on marl and limestone soils, often around sinkholes and in thick hammocks of vegetation in north and central Florida, and parts of Georgia and Alabama. R. hystrix is one of the most cold-hardy palms and will survive temperatures as low as -40F (-200C). The Needle Palm’s short furry trunk carries long black spines at the base of the leaves and is unique in the palm family, readily distinguishing thisspecies. The shining, dark green, fan-shaped leaves make Rhapidophyllum an especially handsome garden palm.

Culture: Rhapidophyllum accepts sun or shade and will tolerate drought and flooding. The trees grow at a moderate pace and are cold hardy and adaptable. Rhapidophyllum generally resists pests and diseases, but may suffer occasional attacks of scale. Specimens growing on acid soils benefit from applications of dolomitic limestone.

Rhapidophyllum hystrix
Common Name: Needle Palm
Cold Tolerance: -4F (-20C) USDA Zones: 7b-11

Typical Height: 5', can reach 14' Growth Rate: Slow
Habit: Clustering

Status: In Stock
Available Range: 15–300gal. B&B 1'–7'CT