Arecastrum Romanzoffianum

Arecastrum romanzoffianum (Syagrus romanzoffiana), the queen palm, is a large palm native to South America, widespread in Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay.

Characteristics
An imposing palm reaching about 15-20 m, with a single erect, slender, cylindrical grey-brown trunk ringed with old leaf scars. The bright green leaves are pinnate, with many lanceolate leaflets along the midrib, long, arching and elegantly plumed, giving the plant a majestic look. Pale yellow flowers are borne in branched inflorescences among the leaves, followed by large hanging clusters of orange fruit.

Growing and care
Full sun and deep, fertile, well drained soil, with regular watering in summer; fast growing when fed and watered. It tolerates short spells down to about -5 °C, so in colder areas it needs a sheltered position. Remove only the dry lower leaves.

Uses
A specimen and avenue palm for large gardens, seaside plantings, hotel grounds and public spaces, alone or in groups of differing heights.