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 palm?s 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 (1øC/35øF,4øC/40øF) in winter. The leaves die with temperatures below 5øC. The plant dies at -3øC. 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.