Whether you want to grow an orchard, create a tropical rainforest, or add shade to your backyard, knowing what to plant around a palm tree can be a challenge. There are more than 3,000 species of palm trees and knowing which ones will thrive in your area is a good start. Once you know what you want, you can narrow down your choices and choose an appropriate size for your new addition.
Categories of Plant that can be Planted Around a Palm Tree
Using ferns at the base of a palm tree’s trunk is a great idea because they look great intertwined and provide a nice frame. Shrubs are also a good choice for this type of tree, as they provide the foundation for decoration and will divide the landscape. Jasmine vines, which are so iconic to coastal settings, are another great choice because their fragrant flowers cover the trunk. Geraniums are also a great option, as they have a similar fragrance, and are a popular tropical flower.
The best plant choice to use in the area under a palm tree is one that is native to the area. For a tropical landscape, ferns look intertwined around the trunk of a palm tree. Climbing jasmine vines also look beautiful near a palm tree, and they also look nice against the foliage. Besides ferns, you can also plant some cacti, geraniums, crotons, and the plants around the base of a palm.
The best companion plants for a palm tree are those that have similar characteristics. The two types of plants should be staggered and provide as much sun as possible. Then, you can choose a cactus or fern that is suitable for USDA zones 9-11. The stoloniferous varieties are good options for creating a natural look in your landscape, too. If you’re planting near a cactus, you can consider a fern.
If you’re planting in a smaller area, you’ll need to make sure the species you’re selecting are appropriate for the space. In a small area, a large palm won’t fit. Instead, you need a smaller species with a shorter trunk. Alternatively, you can plant a stoloniferous variety with a smaller trunk. You’ll need to plant different plants around the trunk of the palm tree depending on its growing conditions.
Besides ferns, you can also plant other kinds of plants around a palm tree. Many types of cacti can grow up to 60 inches and look great with the palm in a tropical landscape. Bromeliads and cacti are both good choices for a tropical garden. The latter can be grown alongside a palm to provide it with additional colour, and it’s a good idea to leave some space between the two.
Read Also: How to Revive a Dying potted Palm tree
Conclusion
The plants to plant around a palm tree are those that can grow under the trunk and can provide shade to the lower-growing palms. They will also provide additional color and eye-level features in your garden. Moreover, if you are planting in a tropical garden, you should choose the right species for the area. These are usually taller and more robust species. In addition to their beauty, they will also be a good companion for your palm tree.
You should choose a plant that will complement your palm tree. Bamboo, for example, is a good choice. Its stems can reach up to 15 feet, and bamboo can grow up to 50 feet. Aside from being a great companion to a palm tree, bamboo also promotes biodiversity in the environment and provides food and shelter for the beneficial critters that live there. Its fast growth and wide range of uses make it a great choice for planting alongside a palm tree.
When choosing what to plant around a palm tree, you should consider the type of palm tree that you have. Some palms prefer full sun and can be grown in a sunny spot. Other varieties prefer partial shade. Ensure that you choose the right species for your palm tree. The right combination of plants will give you a beautiful garden and complement your new addition. If you want to add more color to your garden, you can use both tropical and Mediterranean plants.