One of the most beautiful and fun
trees (plants) to grow for bonsai is the bonsai palm tree. These miniature trees
have a tropical flair and are unique compared to what most people expect from a
bonsai. For the most part, a bonsai palm tree is easy to grow, whether from a
starter or from seeds. Generally, this plant requires moderate lighting, cooler
temperatures, and gentle care. They seldom have problems with insects, use
standard houseplant soil, and when watered and fertilized correctly, will live
for years, a great bonsai to pass down within the family.
When it comes to growing a bonsai palm tree, you will have your choice of
five primary types. First, there are Cane Palms, which are tall, reed-like stems
that look a little bit like bamboo canes once they reach maturity. The Cane Palm
would include species such as the Areca Palm, Bamboo Palm, and Reed Palm, all
beautiful choices for your bonsai palm tree. Another type is the Feather Palms.
These are broken down by leaflets that are soft and droopy or stiff and erect.
The species of Feather Palms to consider for your bonsai palm tree include the
Parlor Palm or Neanthe Bella, which is the most popular of all indoor palms.
However, the Kentia Palm, Coconut Palm, Canary Date Palm, Pygmy Date Palm,
Sentry Palm, and Dwarf Coconut Palm are also great choices.
The third type of bonsai palm tree is Fan Palms that are separated into groups
that radiate from a point at the base of the plant, which are divided, either
partially or completely. The stalks are capable of growing to two feet or
taller. This particular type of bonsai palm tree is not often seen as a
houseplant but the dramatic leaves, which are quite large, are graceful and
beautiful. Species of this palm tree includes the Chinese Fan Palm, European Fan
Palm, Desert Fan Palm, Little Lady Palm, and Windmill Palm. Because this is a
larger species of palm tree, they are not usually used for bonsai growing.
Next, there are the Sago Palms, which look exactly what you would think a palm
tree should look like. The only species of this palm that you will find sold is
the Cycas Revoluta, which is a slow-growing tree. In fact, this type of Sago
Palm generally grows just one leaf a year. However, the leaves that do grow are
dark, arching, and like a rosette. When full grown, this tree is two foot but
does make a nice bonsai palm tree. Finally, you have the Fishtail Palms. The
leaflets, which typically grow six inches long and four inches wide, look like –
fishtails.
If you want to enjoy growing your own bonsai palm tree, we recommend you
consider the Caryota Mitis, which is a species of the Fishtail Palm. This tree
has a thick trunk and branches that spread nicely. Best of all, this tree is
easy to care for and grow. Another bonsai palm tree to consider is the
Parlor Palm, specifically the Collinia Elegans and Neanthe Bella. The nice thing
about these bonsai palm trees is that when provided adequate light, you will
enjoy beautiful bunches of yellow fruit that grows near the base.
