Tickled Squirrel February 2015 | Page 18

Livistona sp. The Livistona (australis and chinensis) are slightly larger palms, eventually reaching sizes similar to Washingtonia, but at a much slower speed. Livistonas occur naturally in Southeast Asia and Australia. The most common species and also ones that grow best here are the L, australis and A. chinensis. They are much better behaved and do not have vicious spines like Washingtonias, nor do they produce that massive flower and seed load. When you shave the trunk properly, the tree will immediately attain a tropical look. The Bismarckia nobilis is native to Madagascar and an adult specimen is a sight to behold, reaching humongous proportions, and should only be considered for the larger garden. It grows relatively fast when planted in fertile well-draining soil and receiving abundant watering during the summer. Think carefully about where you want to plant it, because it tolerates transplanting poorly, and most likely will die after that. So its planting location has to be considered permanent. This species occur naturally in two forms, the green form which is found in the wetter lowland forests of Madagascar, and the blue form found in the more arid high plateaus inland of Madagascar. The latter is the best choice for our climate as it handles drought and cold much better, even withstanding some degrees of frost when established. For more about palm trees or other garden related issues, please contact me at: info@ mediterragarden.es Gardens tailor made to suit your needs www.mediterragarden.es Tel: 630 477 295 [email protected] Avenida del Reino 1, 3a - 30130 Beniel (Murcia) 18