Palm trees come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but they all have one thing in common: they’re an iconic example of a tropical staple. But how old exactly are these elegant, hardy trees?
Palms typically live for anywhere between 30-100 years, though some, such as the Canary Island Date Palm, can reach stunning heights of 1000 years. A recent study from Kew Gardens found that the oldest cultivated palm species at the gardens is 140 years old.
David Zonana, a horticulturist specialising in palms, stated: “Palms are very tough plants and can live for many years […] there’s lots of variation in how long and how healthy a palm tree could be, based on the species and local conditions. From the start these trees will often develop a lot of very woody growth, that makes them more resistant to pests and other environmental changes”.
In terms of growing a healthy palm, Zonana offered his tips: “When planting a palm, make sure you water it regularly and don’t over-fertilise, as this could burn the roots. Find out as much as you can about the type of palm you have to make sure you’re providing the right nutrients”.
Wild palms tend to outlive their cultivated counterparts, and some species such as the Chinese Fan Palm live for an astonishing 800 years. To tolerate extreme environments and climates, many palms are endowed with unique characteristics which set them apart. Corypha lecomtei, for example, possess a combination of the largest leaves and trunk in the world.
Santiago Gavinelli, a biologist, explained: “Palms are able to survive in an array of conditions due to their adaptability […] This could be one of the reasons why some favor species can live as long as they do!”
Another reason for its longevity is their ability to produce large quantities of fruit. Species like Cocos nucifera have a lifespan that is five times the life expectancy of its competitors in the same environment.
Types of Palm Trees
Palms come in all sorts of shapes, sizes, and colors, with there being over 2,600 species of palms in the world today. Generally, there are two types of palms: fan palms and feather palms. Fan palms have palmate leaves that branch from a single point and are associated with tropical climates. Their leaves then fan out forming a round shape. Feather palms, on the other hand, have pinnate leaves that look more like a feather and usually have one large leaf. These palms are usually associated with subtropical climates.
The most recognizable palm species include the Coconut Palm, which grows in coastal areas, the Areca Palm which is a popular houseplant, and the Sabal Palm which is a popular outdoor ornamental. And while there are many more species, they all have one thing in common: they offer shade, beauty, and add a sense of tranquility to any space.
Caring for a Palm Tree
Caring for a palm tree requires some knowledge and dedication, but with the right approach, it’s an achievable task. In terms of watering, for example, palms should be watered regularly, with the amount of water needed depending on the species. Likewise, palm trees should be fertilised twice a year, again depending on species, with the frequency slowly decreasing as the palms reach maturity.
Unlike other trees, there is no need for heavy pruning and shaping, as palms naturally grow in an appealing bushy shape. However, if your palms have started to show signs of stress in the form of yellowing leaves or dead wood, then it’s time to take action.
To help the palms regain their vigour, Zonana offered some more advice: “Make sure to remove the discolored fronds to free-up resources in the tree and consider mulching the soil to reduce loss of water. In some cases it may be necessary to supplement the soil with fertilizers, particularly if the palm is growing in soil that is nutrient deficient .”
Health Benefits of Growing a Palm Tree
Growing a palm tree can also bring about immense health benefits – both physical and mental. As far as physical health is concerned, planting palm trees can provide much needed shade from the sun and help to reduce the risk of sunburn. It can also improve air quality and capture air pollution, providing a cleaner and fresher environment.
Palm trees are also associated with creating an atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility. Looking at a palm tree can help to reduce stress and lower your blood pressure. This calming effect can help alleviate mental fatigue and bring a sense of mental clarity.
Conservation Efforts
Conservation groups around the world are taking important steps to preserve and protect palm species. From threats posed by climate change to illegal harvesting and deforestation, conservation efforts are becoming ever more important. There are a range of initiatives giving palms a chance to thrive, such as the reintroduction of threatened species into their native habitats.
The International Palm Society (IPS) is a key player in many of these initiatives. Working to promote the preservation, propagation, and conservation of palms worldwide, the IPS works with a growing network of palm enthusiasts, researchers, botanists, and conservationists. From influencing policy to campaigning for change, their work is instrumental in creating a better environment for palms globally.
Sustainability of Palm Trees
Palm trees are incredibly sustainable plants and are often seen as a symbol of life and hope. Whether it be the beauty, shade, or fruit, there is no denying that palms bring something special to our lives. With the right care, palms can be highly resistant to pests, providing a safe environment for wildlife and longer lasting, healthier crops.
It’s also important to bear in mind the economic advantages that palms can bring. For farmers around the world, it can represent an important source of income, and an opportunity to create a more secure future. Growing a palm can also bring other positive outcomes, such as strengthening local communities through the job creation it can bring.
Conclusion
To conclude, when identifying the age of a palm tree, it is important to note the significant differences between their wild and cultivated counterparts with regards to longevity. With the right care and knowledge, palms can bring about immense physical and mental health benefits and offer essential refuge for wildlife. By understanding their needs, unique characteristics and resilience, palms can benefit from centuries of successful growth, offering a sustainable resource that can bring hope and life to many.
