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Description
Wodyetia bifurcata, also known as the Foxtail Palm, is a species of palm native to northeastern Australia. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and low maintenance requirements. The Foxtail Palm can grow up to 30 feet tall and 15 feet wide, with a single, smooth trunk that bulges slightly at the base. The leaves are pinnate, or feather-like, and can reach up to 8 feet long. The flowering period occurs during the summer months, with clusters of small yellow flowers that develop into reddish-brown fruit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Arecales |
| Family | Arecaceae |
| Genus | Wodyetia |
Appearance
The Foxtail Palm has a slender, smooth trunk that can grow up to 30 feet tall and 15 feet wide. The trunk bulges slightly at the base and is topped with a crown of large, feathery leaves that can reach up to 8 feet long. The leaves are a deep green color and grow in a circular pattern, giving the plant a distinctive, symmetrical appearance. During the summer months, the Foxtail Palm produces clusters of small yellow flowers that develop into reddish-brown fruit.
Care Guide
Water: The Foxtail Palm prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch, but do not allow the soil to become completely dry.Fertilization: Fertilize the Foxtail Palm with a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season.Soil: The Foxtail Palm can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The Foxtail Palm prefers full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The Foxtail Palm is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Foxtail Palm is relatively pest and disease-free, but may be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as root rot, if overwatered.
Habitat
The Foxtail Palm is native to northeastern Australia, where it grows in open forests and near water sources. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of climate conditions, including drought and high winds.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Foxtail Palm?
A: Water your Foxtail Palm when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch, but do not allow the soil to become completely dry.Q: What pests should I watch out for with my Foxtail Palm?
A: The Foxtail Palm may be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.Q: What is the flowering period for the Foxtail Palm?
A: The Foxtail Palm flowers during the summer months, with clusters of small yellow flowers that develop into reddish-brown fruit.Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Foxtail Palm?
A: The Foxtail Palm is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Related Plants
- Adonidia Merrillii (Christmas Palm)
- Caryota Urens (Fish Tail Palm)
- Phoenix Canariensis (Canary Island Date Palm)
- Rhapis Excelsa (Lady Palm)
References
- “Wodyetia bifurcata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286045.
- “Wodyetia bifurcata.” Florida Palm Trees. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.florida-palm-trees.com/wodyetia-bifurcata-foxtail-palm/.
- “Wodyetia bifurcata.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/foxtail-palm/growing-foxtail-palms.htm.
