Overview
Areca palm is a clustering Madagascar palm with many slender yellow-green stems and soft arching fronds. It is one of Florida's most familiar tropical privacy palms.
Mature Size and Growth
Outdoor clumps commonly reach 20 to 35 feet tall and 10 to 20 feet wide. New stems emerge from the base, so the clump becomes broader and denser with age.
Where to Use It
Use it for tall tropical screening, pool privacy, property-line buffers, and protected courtyards. Give it enough width and keep it away from roofs, narrow side yards, and tight equipment access.
Light, Soil, and Water
Plant in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil with reliable moisture. Strong sun creates more golden stem color. Water deeply during establishment and long droughts. Florida palms need a palm-specific nutrient program where legally permitted.
Best Time to Plant and Care
Plant in spring through early summer. Keep the root initiation zone at the original depth. Remove only dead fronds and thin unwanted canes at ground level rather than cutting the top from a living stem.
Wildlife and Landscape Value
The dense clump provides visual screening and some wildlife shelter. Its layered foliage softens walls, fences, and pool enclosures.
Important Considerations
Areca palm is not native to Florida and suffers cold injury near freezing. It needs considerable room and produces ongoing leaf and cane debris. Nutrient deficiencies often appear as yellowing or damaged new leaves. Learn more from UF/IFAS.
Local Delivery
Local delivery only in approved South Tampa ZIP codes. $600.00 minimum plant order. $100.00 flat delivery fee. Ecoscape will contact you to schedule delivery.