What is a spindle palm plant?

The plants are native to the Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean. Spindle palm plants are so called because of the ridges on the trunk that resemble a spindle and the shape, which is narrow at the base, widens and then constricts where fronds begin to grow. The spindle palm is a true palm that may grow up to 25 feet in full sun conditions.

How do you take care of a spindle palm tree?

Plant care. The spindle palm should be planted with top soil or organic peat moss added to the hole. Once the palm is established, a good watering once a week throughout the year should be enough to keep it happy. Though its nutritional requirements are low to moderate, fertilize once a season in spring, summer and fall.

How far apart do you plant palm spindles?

Place spindles at least 6 feet apart if you’re planting them in a row or grouping. This is a great palm for a large container, especially in a pool cage where it will eventually grow too tall for most cage heights.

What is the best fertilizer for spindle palm trees?

The nutrients most often needed in larger amounts are potassium and magnesium. Potassium deficiency will exhibit by large orange spots on the fronds. Good spindle palm tree care recommends an annual fertilization with a high potassium ratio once per year in early spring.

Do you need to prune a spindle palm?

Spindle palms are remarkably unfussy. Once established, they can tolerate brief periods of drought and saline conditions. They are not technically self-cleaning, but grow so slowly you will only occasionally need to prune off dead fronds. Protection from frost is a large part of the plant’s care.

Is a landscape palm a specimen plant?

Landscape palms like these make impressive single specimen plants. They can also act as sentries at the entrance to a property, or as pretty additions to a tropical palm garden. This palm’s trunk, straight and sturdy with ridges resembling a spindle, lends itself to underplantings of shrubs and flowers.