The Identification of Palm Trees in Florida

The coconut palm commonly graces the Florida landscape.

Florida plant life includes a variety of palm trees due to its tropical climate. To truly take in the beauty of the various types of palm trees that are part of the state's landscape, it's important to learn about the leaf colors, sizes and growth conditions that identify each plant.

Size

Florida palm trees are often tall and towering. The coconut palm grows up to 100 feet tall. The thatch palm, a slow-growing tree with a wide spread, only grows between 15 and 25 feet tall, according to the University of Florida.

Colors

Florida palm tree leaves and bark vary in shades of green and brown. For instance, the Everglades palm, Florida's state tree, has a medium brown trunk with light green leaves that are silver underneath. The saw palmetto, a palm tree with light brown bark that grows low to the ground in shrub form, has leaves that are a combination of blue and green hues.

Shade Tolerance

Florida palm trees have different levels of shade tolerance, making them ideal for growth in various parts of the state. The key thatch palm grows best in the tropical regions of Florida and needs full or medium sun to grow, as does the Florida royal palm. The red palm needs sun at least part of the day and grows well in subtropical areas of the state.

References

• Botanical Journeys Plant Guides: Native Florida Palm Trees
• University of Florida: The Coconut Palm in Florida
• University of Florida: Native Trees of South Florida.
• Floridata: Saw Palmetto