ROYAL PALM
The Royal Palm (Roystonea regia) is one of the most iconic and majestic palms in Florida, often seen lining streets, resorts, and upscale landscapes. Here’s what makes it special:
Overview
Appearance: Tall, smooth, gray trunk with a striking green crownshaft and a canopy of large, arching fronds. Its elegant, columnar form gives it a regal look.
Size: Can grow 50–70 feet tall (sometimes up to 80 feet) with a trunk diameter of 1–2 feet.
Flowers & Fruit: Produces creamy white flowers followed by small, round fruits that attract birds.
Suitability in Florida
Climate: Thrives in USDA Zones 10–11, making it ideal for South Florida and coastal areas. It is not frost-tolerant, so it struggles in North Florida.
Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil, but adapts to sandy soils with proper care.
Sunlight: Requires full sun for best growth.
Water: Needs regular watering, especially when young, but becomes moderately drought-tolerant once established.
Benefits
Iconic beauty: Adds a dramatic, tropical statement to landscapes.
Wildlife-friendly: Fruits attract birds and other wildlife.
Low maintenance: Self-cleaning—old fronds drop naturally, reducing pruning needs.
Considerations
Cold sensitivity: Temperatures below 28°F can damage or kill the tree.
Space: Requires plenty of room due to its height and root spread.
Salt tolerance: Good for coastal areas, but avoid direct salt spray.
