Archontophoenix alexandrae or the Alexander Palm is an ornamental palm that is native to coastal regions from northern New South Wales to northern Queensland. They grow to around 10 metres high in ideal conditions and produce white flower-clusters and red berries that attract a variety of birds.
Due to their low-maintenance and ability to tolerate wet soils, the Alexander Palm is a popular choice in tropical regions. Although native to Australia, Archontophoenix alexandrae has been naturalised in Hawaii, California, and Florida where they are sold commercially.
Other common names include the King Palm, King Alexander Palm, Alexandra Palm, and the Northern Bangalow Palm.
Growth
The Alexander Palm grows to heights of between 8 and 10 metres although some specimens have reached 18 metres in the native habitat. Archontophoenix alexandrae is one of the fastest growing palm varieties and add 30-100cm annually where conditions suit. They are usually started in small pots so that seedlings can be moved indoors during colder periods. Mature trees can withstand temperatures around -2°C / 28°F.
In spring and summer, small white flowers are grown in clusters that eventually turn into red berries. The berries are eaten and spread by a range of birds which has led to this palm becoming invasive in some areas. Can be grown in poor quality soils and is tolerate of shady locations. And despite their love for the tropics, they grow well in temperate climates as far south as Melbourne.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Arecaceae
CLIMATE:
Temperate, Sub Tropical, Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
10 to 40°C / 50 to 104°F
SOIL TYPE:
Tolerates most soil types.
LOCATION:
Full Sun or Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 10 metres (30 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 2.5 metres (8 feet)
pH:
6.0-7.5
GROWTH TYPE:
Evergreen.
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium
POLLINATION:
Bees, Wind, Ants, Beetles, and Flies.
MATURITY:
3-5 years
GERMINATION RATES:
65-80%
GERMINATION TIME:
3-12 weeks, dependent on conditions.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium
SEEDS PER GRAM:
2
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
No
WEED POTENTIAL:
Yes. Wet regions of Hawaii are finding this species to be a pest.
EDIBLE:
Not that we are aware of.
SEED STORAGE & VIABILITY:
Cold Storage at 4°C (Fridge) up to 1 year.
FACTS ABOUT ARCHONTOPHOENIX ALEXANDRAE (Alexander Palm)
The wood of Alexander Palms has been used to make spears while the fruit and leaf bases can be eaten.
Archontophoenix alexandrae fronds can reach a length of around 3.5 metres.
Magpies are one of the more frequent eaters of the red berries from an Alexander Palm.
