Common Name(s): Bismarck Palm

Synonym(s):

Family: Arecaceae

Native To: Madagascar

Native Habitat: Grasslands

Growth Habit: Large palm reaching up to 40-70 feet in height and can spread 10-20 feet wide.

Flowering: Spring

Distinguishing Characteristics: Palmately-lobed leaves are bright gray-green or blue in color and can eventually grow up to 10 feet across with petioles up to 6 feet long. In addition, leaves remain erect throughout their life do not droop with age. Plants are dioecious (male and female flowers born on separate individuals.) Flowers are white to cream colored and are born on stalks reaching 4 feet in length. Fruits are black colored, round to lumpy in shape, and can be up to 2 inches long.

Natural History and Cultivation Notes: Although Bismarckia is described as drought-tolerant (more so with age) and can grow in full sun exposure, it appreciates some shade as well. This species can adapt to various types of soil, sand to clay to loam, slightly acidic or alkaline, as long as they are well drained. Warnings about overwatering emphasize the requirements for dry soils during winter months.

Reports on propagation indicate that Bismarck palms can be propagated by seeds which germinate in 6-8 weeks. Propagation strategies suggest that seeds which mature during tropical rainy seasons would benefit from soaking/washing off pulp prior to sowing.

The UA Bismarck palm was purchased from Merv Larson in Tucson, a grower who loves the monocots. It is located on the south side of the Gould-Simpson Building near reflective windows and almost under a canopy.

Ethnobotany:

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