Archontophoenix alexandrae – also known as Alexander Palm, King Palm, or Alexandra Palm – is a fast-growing and elegant palm native to Australia. It thrives in warm, humid climates and is widely used in landscaping due to its slender, smooth gray trunk and lush green crown of feathery fronds.
Key Features:
- Botanical Name: Archontophoenix alexandrae
- Common Names: Alexandra Palm, King Palm, Northern Bangalow Palm
- Family: Arecaceae
- Native Region: Eastern Australia (Queensland)
- Growth Rate: Fast-growing
- Mature Height: 15–25 meters (50–80 feet)
- Trunk: Smooth, gray with prominent leaf scars
- Leaves: Pinnate, dark green, arching fronds up to 3–4 meters (10–13 feet) long
- Flowers: Small, purple to mauve flowers in large clusters
- Fruit: Bright red, oval-shaped, attractive to birds
- Seed Count per kg: Approximately 3,000 seeds per kilogram
- Season: All year
Growing Conditions:
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile, and moist soil
- Watering Needs: Moderate to high; prefers regular watering but tolerates short dry spells
- Temperature Tolerance: Not frost-hardy; thrives in tropical and subtropical climates
- Humidity: Prefers high humidity
- Wind Tolerance: Moderate; protected areas are best
Landscaping & Uses:
- Perfect for tropical gardens, streetscapes, and public parks
- Often planted in rows along driveways or walkways for a grand effect
- Suitable for large pots when young