Custom Event Setup
×Click on the elements you want to track as custom events. Selected elements will appear in the list below.
VIRIAR
Couldn't load pickup availability
Hardy, cold-tolerant palm perfect for temperate and cooler climates
Rhapidophyllum hystrix, commonly known as the Needle Palm, is a hardy, slow-growing palm native to the southeastern United States. It is one of the most cold-tolerant palms, capable of withstanding temperatures as low as -20 °C (-4 °F), making it suitable for a wider range of climates than most other palms.
The Needle Palm is a small, clumping palm that typically grows to a height of 1–3 meters (3–10 feet) with a spread of up to 3 meters (10 feet). It is characterized by its fan-shaped leaves, which are dark green and deeply divided into narrow, pointed segments. The trunk is usually hidden by a dense mass of fibrous material and sharp needle-like spines, which give the plant its common name.
Rhapidophyllum hystrix is an excellent choice for gardeners looking to add a hardy, low-maintenance palm to their landscape. Its compact size, unique appearance, and remarkable cold tolerance make it a valuable addition to a variety of garden settings.
Fresh seeds of Rhapidophyllum hystrix have the best chance of germination. Soak the seeds in warm water for 24–48 hours to help soften the seed coat. Scarifying the seeds lightly can also improve germination rates significantly.
Sow the seeds in a well-draining seed-starting mix. A mixture of peat, perlite, or sand works well. Ensure proper drainage to prevent seed rot during germination.
Plant the seeds about 2–3 cm (0.8–1.2 inches) deep and cover lightly with soil. Keep the seeds labeled for accurate record-keeping during germination.
Place the seed tray in a warm environment with temperatures around 25–30 °C (77–86 °F). Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Provide good air circulation to prevent mold.
Provide bright, indirect light during germination. Avoid strong direct sunlight which can dry out seeds or cause overheating of the soil.
Germination may take several months, so patience is required. Maintain consistent warm temperatures and moisture levels for the best success rates.
Once seedlings emerge, provide them with bright, indirect light. As they grow, gradually acclimate them to more direct sunlight. Transplant seedlings into larger pots or directly into the garden when they are large enough to handle.
Rhapidophyllum hystrix thrives in partial shade to full sun. While it can tolerate deep shade, it will grow more vigorously in bright, indirect light or dappled sunlight.
The Needle Palm prefers well-draining, fertile soil but is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils. It performs best in slightly acidic to neutral pH.
Rhapidophyllum hystrix enjoys regular watering, especially during the growing season, but is also drought-tolerant once established. Ensure the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer. Feeding once or twice during the growing season should suffice for healthy growth.
This palm is extremely cold-hardy, tolerating temperatures as low as -20 °C (-4 °F). It is well-suited to USDA zones 6b–11, making it a versatile choice for gardeners in cooler climates.
This palm requires minimal maintenance. Remove any dead or damaged fronds to keep the plant tidy and healthy. Be cautious of the sharp spines when handling or pruning.
When planting outdoors, choose a location with well-draining soil and some protection from the hottest afternoon sun in warmer climates. For container planting, use a large pot with drainage holes and a rich potting mix.
Premier Provider of Exceptional Exotic and Rare Seeds Worldwide
Specializing in authentic, carefully curated germplasm selected with meticulous precision and unwavering commitment to quality excellence.
Bringing tropical paradise to gardens across 190+ countries
At VIRIAR, we specialize in delivering premium tropical plants, exotic palms, and rare seeds from our nursery in Topoľníky, Slovakia to plant enthusiasts worldwide. Every shipment is carefully packaged with phytosanitary certificates and expert care instructions to ensure your plants arrive healthy and ready to thrive.
We've perfected the art of shipping live tropical plants internationally. Each plant is bare-rooted, wrapped in protective materials, and shipped with moisture-retaining packaging. Our plants are quarantine-certified and come with all necessary documentation for customs clearance.
Real-time tracking from our nursery in Slovakia to your doorstep anywhere in the world
Professional bare-root prep, moisture control, protective wrapping for long journeys.
Official EU certificates and health inspections for international transport.
Track plants from nursery to doorstep with real-time updates.
Weather monitoring and insulated packaging for temperature protection.
Detailed planting instructions and aftercare tips included.
100% alive arrival promise or free replacement.