Family: Arecaceae
Common Name: Bismarck Palm

This genus comprises only one species of palm native to Madagascar where it grows on the drier side of the island. The fronds have been used as roofing thatch and for weaving baskets. A type of sago comes from the trunk.

Species

B. nobilis, Bismarck palm, is fast growing in good conditions where it can reach a height of 20 m (65 ft). It is a fan palm with heavy blue-green fan leaves which can grow to 3 m (10 ft) across. The leaf stalks are also blue-green and the self-cleaning trunk is fairly broad and sturdy.

Cultivation

In frost-prone climates, grow in pots of soil-based potting compost in an intermediate to warm greenhouse or conservatory. Provide bright light but not direct sun. Outdoors, soils should be well drained and improved by the addition of decayed organic matter. Water regularly when the plants are young; mature palms are fairly tolerant of long dry spells.

Climate

Zone 10 and above.