A young needle palm

About Rhapidophyllum Hystrix

Rhapidophyllum hystrix, the needle palm, is generally considered to be the most cold-hardy palm. It is a slow-growing palm with a shrub-like form, and usually does not form a large trunk. It is indigenous to the coastal southeastern United States, from Mississippi to South Carolina.

Hardiness

Conservatively, the needle palm is hardy to zone 6. It has been known to withstand temperatures as low as -20°F, but a more realistic hardiness limit is 0°F to -10°F. It is prone to foliage damage and browning during cold winter conditions, especially when combined with wind. Cold-hardiness will increase in the needle palm as it become larger and well-established.

Winter Protection

Mulch heavily. Gradually remove the mulch in spring. Site in a favorable wind-protected exposure, such as the south side of a wall or building. Needle palms are prone to fungal and bacterial crown rot under wet winter conditions. Spraying the foliage and crowns several times during the winter with a fungicide/bactericide spray will help prevent crown rot.

Growing Tips

Needle palms prefer full sun to light shade. In colder, marginal climates, full sun is better; in hot climates, light shade is preferred. Mulch plants and water regularly until well-established.