Rhapidophyllum hystrix

Common names

Needle Palm, Hedgehog Palm, Blue Palmetto.

Curiosities

The natives slightly cut the leaves apex so that some fibres appear, pull out these fibres, and in this way they have thread and needle to sew. During the 19th and 20th century, they were cut and used for interior decorating.

Origin

South East of U.S.A. (Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and Florida).

Habitat

Moist and marshy areas forming groups, in forests of deciduous tress and usually on calcareous soils. Threatened in habitat, because of its commercial use.

Morphology

A subterranean or low growing, clumping palm which has long black spines on the leaf sheaths. Around 15 palmate leaves, bright dark green above and lighter below. Inflorescence hidden between the leaves base and the spines. A long, oval fruit, brown with light brown spots of different sizes. Monoecious. The strong and painful spines are the main characteristic of this species.

Climate

One of the most cold hardy palms. This palm has tolerated temperatures down to –11.8ºC (10.7ºF, USDA Zone 8a).

Germination

Seeds are difficult to obtain, and germination is slow and erratic.

Growing

Grows best in warm areas, with hot summers, and can be planted in shade or full sun. Requires rich soils, but tolerates sandy and calcareous soils. Tolerant to frost between –12 and -15°C. Very slow growing. Cultivated as outside plants in cold areas.