Most people know that palm trees bear coconuts, but what about the leaves? What exactly do you call the long, broad fronds that adorn these majestic trees? The answer is “pinnate” leaves. That’s because their individual leaflets resemble the plume of a feather.
Nowadays, palm trees are widely used for landscaping and gardening. They are a popular choice for festive decorations as well. You may have seen large pinnate leaves used in artificial arrangements, as well as in outdoor decorations and in centerpieces for large events.
In the natural world, pinnate leaves are incredibly important. They provide shade, protection and refuge for desert animals, birds and other creatures. They can also help to cool the deserts that can get excessively hot during the summer months.
A pinnate leaf tends to start off as a single, green “petiole” which then splits into several to many smaller leaflets or “pinnae”. Every palm species has its own unique pattern, so it’s easy to identify one by looking at the shape of its leaves. Palm trees bearing pinnate leaves are often referred to as “palmate leaves” due to their spread-out pattern.
The leaves of palm trees come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from small to large. These shapes and sizes depend on the type of palm tree, and can vary greatly. In some cases, pinnate leaves are broad and flat, while in others they can be narrow, smooth or curved.
In terms of botanical terms, the part of the tree that actually holds the leaves is called the frond. When a frond dies off and falls off the tree, it is referred to as a “spear”.
While pinnate leaves offer several advantages for the plant, they also make a palm tree susceptible to damage from storms and wind. When high winds or storms are eminent, experts generally advise property owners to make sure any pinnate leaves on their trees are tied down, otherwise they can cause significant damage to their properties.
Landscape Design
The unique beauty of palm trees with their pinnate leaves can make a great impact on the overall design of a landscaped area. For this reason, they are often used to create focal points. Whether used indoors or outdoors, they can liven up a room, add a natural feel of tranquillity and provide a visual centrepiece.
When it comes to palm varieties, pinnate-leafed trees can be divided into two main categories: fan palms, which have circular fans, and feather palms, which have narrow pinnate leaves.
For a more modern look, fan palms tend to do best in the landscape. Feather palms, on the other hand, are usually used in more classic designs.
It’s also important to take the size and shape of the leaves into consideration. Different species of palms may have different sized leaves, so it’s important to ensure that you choose one that’s appropriate for your particular application.
For those looking to add a unique touch to their outdoor space, or even their indoor space, considering pinnate leaves from a palm tree is a great option.
Cultural Symbolism
Besides providing protection and beauty in our environment, pinnate leaves have great symbolic value as well. In many cultures, the fan- shaped leaves are used as a symbol of divine truth, peace and enlightenment.
Ancient Egyptians associated the palm tree with the sun god Ra, while in Greek and Roman mythology they were often associated with gods such as Apollo and Dionysus. In Hinduism, the palm tree was an emblem of fertility, while in the Bible they were considered a symbol of victory.
It’s not just in mythology and religion either. For centuries, many cultures have used the fronds for making brooms, hats, humps and other items for everyday living.
To this day, the palm tree is synonymous with many cultures and nations, from Hawaii to Mexico to the Middle East. The leafy branches are associated with hospitality, celebration and friendship, and are often used for special occasions.
Planting
When looking to plant a palm tree with pinnate leaves, it’s essential to select one that is suited to the climate and area it’s being planted in. While some, such as the areca palms, are hardier and can tolerate more extreme conditions, others, such as the date palm, require more specialised care.
It’s important to consider more than just the climate when selecting a palm tree though. It’s also important to take into account the size of the area it will be planted in and the amount of sun, shade and air circulation available.
In general, the more exposed an area is, the more drought-tolerant species will be needed. On the other hand, if a palm tree is planted in a shaded area or is constantly exposed to wind, then species that are more tolerant of wind and shade should be chosen.
The planting location also makes a difference. Palms should be planted away from any walls or buildings in order to ensure optimal air circulation. And as with any other plants, they need plenty of water and regular feeding to help them thrive.
Care and Maintenance
When it comes to taking care of palm trees, regular pruning is essential. With pinnate leaves, it’s important to remove any dead or dying leaves as soon as possible. Otherwise, they can attract pests and diseases, which can spread to the rest of the tree.
It’s also important to protect the palm tree from extreme cold or heat. If temperatures drop too low, it’s a good idea to cover the leaves with a blanket or sheet. And when temperatures rise, it’s a good idea to mist the leaves with water to help them cool down.
Finally, when it comes to fertilizers, it’s best to use ones specially formulated for palms. Most local garden centres carry these, and they can be applied according to the directions on the package.
Harvesting and Consumption
While most people think of pinnate-leafed palm trees as ornamental plants, the truth is that many of these trees are also used as a food source. Heart of palm, or “palmito”, is harvested from young palm trees. It’s a popular ingredient in salads and soups in some parts of the world, particularly in tropical areas.
Additionally, many types of palm trees bear a sweet edible fruit, such as the coconut or the date. These fruits can be eaten on their own or used in cooking and baking.
For those looking to harvest the fruits of their pinnate-leafed palm trees, it’s important to look up the particular species to find out when it’s best to do so.
Healing Properties
In some cultures, palm leaves have long been used for healing. For example, in traditional Chinese medicine, a paste made from the pith of these leaves is believed to have the power to heal cuts and wounds. The leaves are also said to help reduce muscle aches and pains.
In India and other countries of the subcontinent, pinnate leaves are often used in rituals and ceremonies, including marriages and other religious events. They are seen as symbols of fertility and prosperity, and they are believed to offer protection from evil spirits.
In some Native American tribes, the leaves of the palm are also said to possess special healing powers and are used to ward off negative energies. Even today, these leaves can be found for sale at some herbal stores and health spas.
