Bismarck Palm
16' Bismarck Palm in the Field
Bismarckia nobilis
Native to Madagascar, the Bismarck Palm makes a big impact in any landscape. With mature heights ranging between thirty to sixty feet and spreads of twelve to eighteen feet, Bismarck Palms are a great choice for a bold statement.
Bismarck Palms are noted for their enormous fronds, which can grow to be more than four feet in diameter. These are generally a silvery green shade, but there are some varieties that sport olive green toned foliage. Bismarck Palms start out as slow growers, but once the trunk is fully formed, they take on a more regular growth habit.
As they reach maturity, Bismarck Palms become self cleaning, with their massive fronds falling on their own, leaving the split leaf bases on the trunk. Unlike other palm varieties, however, these too will eventually fall, leaving an attractive ring-shaped scar. As a result, the Bismarck Palm has a clear trunk, textured by concentric rings, with leaf bases clinging only to the uppermost section of the trunk.
These palms are highly adaptable to many soil conditions and flourish in full sunlight, though they will tolerate partial shade. They are highly drought resistant and can tolerate moderate salt spray. Their size and unique color makes them ideally suited for large landscapes, either on their own or in groups.
Ornamental Characteristics:
Native Origin:
Madagascar
Common Names:
Nobilis Palm, Satra Palm
Description:
Hardy Range: 8B – 11
Mature Height: 30 – 60’
Mature Spread: 12 – 18’
Growth Rate: Moderate
Ornamental Characteristics:
The Bismarck Palm has exceptionally large, fan-shaped, silver-toned fronds. These are self cleaning once the palm reaches maturity, leaving a split base, or “boot”, at the top of the trunk. Over time, these detach, leaving a clear trunk that retains a slightly textured ring where the base had been. The inedible fruit of a female Bismarck palm is a yellow-green, maturing to a dark brown-black, and grows in clusters. Male Bismarck Palms will produce long brown inflorescences, but will not fruit.
Environment:
Salt: Moderate
Drought Tolerance: High
Exposure: Full Sun to Partial Shade
