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Archontophoenix
alexandrae, the Royal Palm, grows in the tropical
rainforests of Australia. It grows to heights exceeding
25 meters high. Its width will vary from 2 to 5 meters.
The Royal Palm must be grown in a glasshouse or a veranda
because of its tropical needs. It is fast to grow.
The palms stipe is cylindrical and around 30 cm
wide. The evergreen foliage is made up of palms 2 to 3.5
meters long with a very visible central nervure. The
divided leaflets are supple. They are green on the front
and grey-green on the back. The palm produces 40 to 80 cm
long inflorescences, formed by three bracts, two males
and one female. Small violet flowers grow at the end of
these inflorescences. The fruits of archontophoenix
alexandrae are small, round, red and abundant.
Hardiness zones 10-11 (1°C/35°F,4°C/40°F) in winter.
The leaves die with temperatures below 5°C. The plant
dies at -3°C. Humidity and cold temperatures will make
the palm frail and more subject to illnesses.
The soil must be neutral and rich. The Royal Palm needs a
couple of hours of light everyday, but direct sun can be
harmful. Watering must only be done when the soil has
dried out.
The Royal Palm requires a soft and well-drained soil,
preferably containing organic substances. Fertilize
weekly during its growth and once a year after. The plant
will need to be watered regularly during its growth, but
once it is over, you will only need to water two days
after the soil has dried. Place the palm in a half-shade
half-sun spot.
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