Bismarck Palm Tree: Striking Silver-Blue Fronds
Bismarck palm trees (Bismarckia nobilis) are native to Madagascar, and
are known for their striking silver-blue fronds.
These palm
trees are popular in commercial and large residential
settings. Bismark palms make a dramatic impact when planted
along a long, winding driveway or wide walkway.
Bismarckia nobilis (also known as Bismarck Palm or Bismark Palm)

belongs to the Arecaceae
family, and can be planted year round in USDA hardiness zones 10
through 11. The bismark palm tree is considered to be low
maintenance - it will adapt to a variety of soil types and will thrive
in partial to full sun.
Bismark palms can grow up to fifty feet tall, with a spread of ten to
fifteen feet wide. Silver-blue fronds fan out from a smooth
trunk to form a spherical crown or canopy.
The waxy, fan-like palm fronds are silver-blue in color, with a leaf
blade length of thirty-six inches. These palm trees are
planted outdoors as single specimens in residential sized landscapes,
or can be planted in a line along a long driveway or walkway.
Bismarck
Palm Care
Bismark palm trees add dramatic tropical flare to residential and
commercial landscape designs. Single specimens are typically
used as a focal point in the landscape. Several trees can be
planted in a row along a driveway or winding road in large residential
and commercial landscapes.
Tips for Planting
USDA Hardiness Zone–
Can be planted year-round in zones 10 – 11.
Location –
Choose a location that receives partial to full sun. The
location should be large enough to accommodate full growth.
Bismarckia nobilis palm trees should not be planted near structures or power
lines. Allow fifteen feet between plantings.
Soil –
Bismark palms like sandy, well-draining soil.
Steps for Planting
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball. Note:
The hole should be as deep as the root ball is tall. The soil
surrounding the roots should be loose to allow for easy establishment.
- When placing the root ball in the hole, make sure the tree
is standing straight. Fill the hole halfway with soil and
pack firmly. Fill the hole with the remaining soil while
packing firmly around the base of the palm tree. Large, newly
planted palm trees may need to be protected from winds and storms by
using a brace.
- Water thoroughly after planting is completed.
Newly planted palms like lots of water. For the first two to
three weeks, water daily. Continue watering three times a
week. Once established, palms require minimal
watering. During the warmer months, water approximately two
to three times per week. Water approximately once a week
during the winter.
- Approximately six weeks after planting, fertilize Bismarck
palms with a high-quality palm tree fertilizer. Fertilization
schedule will be three times a year thereafter.
Note:
Choose the location wisely; transplanting palm trees once they are
established is risky.