What a needle is?

Palm needles, scientifically known as rhapidophyllum Hystrix , as well as the common names of dicobrants and palms of fans, is the only member of the family rhapidophyllum . This plant -like plant is endemic for the coastal plains of the southeastern United States, but is often grown in plant nurseries in colder climate. Palm needles are considered one of the most demanding palm trees. Figred leaves with projections similar to needle grow from a single base. The maximum height of this plant is 10 feet (3 m). The name of the family rhapidophyllum means a needle in Greek. Hystrix comes from the Greek name of dicobic. They grow sporadically along the coast of Florida, Georgia and Alabama as Myll as along the flood plains and streams in Mississippi. These palm trees are rare in their native environment and are threatened for growing north of the natural environment.

palm needles can mMake individual or more fibrous bases that grow up to 4 feet (1.2 m) long and 7.8 cm) wide. Deep green leaves grow in clusters with a diameter of 2 to 5 feet (0.6 to 1.5 m). Leaves similar to fan have 15 to 20 segments and silver underside. Brown to black slender and sharp spine in the range of 4 to 10 inches (10 to 25 cm) long protruding from leaf foundations. Small yellow or purple flowers that bloom during spring and summer grow in the middle of clusters.

This type of palm slowly grows and can tolerate temperatures as cold as -20 ° F (-29 ° C) and warm as 40 ° F (4.5 ° C). It can survive frequent frosts, but may be damaged by long -term cold spells. Palm needles can also tolerate slight drought and occasional floods.

Palm needles are grown in kindergartens in mild areas and used as field and gardening plants. It is also grown in containers and is placed inside. Palms of needles grow preferably in a damp, well -drained soil under the shadow but can be adaptedBit of sandy soil and full of sunlight. To protect against rot, a litter of leaves can be added around the base. After the winter season it is recommended to spray bactericide and fungicide.