Rhapidophyllum hystrix
Needle Palm, Porcupine Palm, Hedgehog Palm

Known as the one of the hardiest palms in the world. This needle palm will easily tolerate temperatures below zero degrees F. Rhapidophyllum hystrix is an attractive and somewhat dwarf clustering fan palm with dark green leaves that will grow to a maximum height of 6-8 feet. This unique palm has very short hairy trunks with vicious needles arising from the fiber at the bases of the leaves.

Rhapidophyllum hystrix is native to swampy areas of the Gulf States, USA and is very easy to grow and maintain. This needle palm looks best when planted in slight shade and provided frequent watering, but is also adaptable to full sun. The needle palm has a slow to moderate growth rate. Propagation from seed can be challenging and take 90-365 days or longer, germination rate is typically low compared to most other palm species. This palm is quite rare in cultivation.

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Rhapidophyllum hystrix
Needle Palm, Porcupine Palm, Hedgehog Palm

Zones 6b-11, Minimum Temp -10F (-23°C) degrees
Full Sun or Light Shade - Plant in fast draining soil.