Alexander Palm
Alexander Palm
Prices exclusive of GST
Alexander Palm (Archontophoenix alexandrae)
A classic favourite for Australian gardens, the Alexander Palm is a fast-growing, elegant palm with a clean, straight trunk and lush green fronds. Ideal for both residential and commercial landscapes, it adds a tropical, architectural look while remaining low-maintenance and versatile.
Typical Uses:
• Driveway and fence line planting
• Poolside and garden feature tree
• Tropical or subtropical landscaping designs
• Medium-height privacy screening
Whether you’re creating a dense green screen or enhancing your garden with a striking vertical element, Alexander Palms are a reliable and attractive option that performs beautifully in most coastal climates.
Growth Habits and Characteristics
Growth Habits and Characteristics
The Alexander Palm (Archontophoenix alexandrae) is a solitary-trunked palm with a naturally symmetrical and upright form, making it ideal for narrow garden beds, lining driveways, or planting in clusters for screening.
Height: Typically reaches 8–12 metres in ideal conditions, though many suburban specimens stay around 5–8 metres.
Trunk: Smooth, grey trunk with attractive ring markings; slender and self-cleaning.
Fronds: Arching, feather-like fronds grow up to 2.5–3 metres long, creating a full, tropical canopy.
Growth Rate: Fast-growing in warm climates with adequate water and nutrition—up to 1 metre per year in optimal conditions.
Canopy Spread: Moderate; fronds grow upward and outward but not excessively wide, making it suitable for tighter spaces.
Alexander Palms naturally shed their lower fronds as they grow taller, giving them a clean, columnar appearance without the need for much pruning. With the right conditions, they quickly develop into impressive, lush specimens that add height and texture to any landscape.
Maintenance and Care Requirements
Maintenance and Care Requirements
Alexander Palms are relatively low-maintenance once established, making them a popular choice for homeowners and landscapers alike.
Watering: Keep soil consistently moist during the establishment phase. Once mature, the palm is moderately drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering, especially in dry or windy conditions.
Soil: Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Avoid areas with poor drainage to prevent root rot.
Feeding: Use a slow-release fertiliser formulated for palms 2–3 times a year to promote lush growth and a healthy trunk.
Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed—simply remove old, yellowing fronds at the base to maintain a tidy appearance.
Mulching: Apply mulch around the base to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the trunk.
Alexander Palms also respond well to liquid seaweed-based tonics during the warmer months to encourage strong root development and vibrant foliage.
