SCIENTIFIC NAME: Dypsis decaryi

COMMON NAME(S): Triangle palm
SUB FAMILY: Arecoideae
TRIBE: Areceae
ORIGIN: Madagascar
HARDINESS ZONES: 10B-11 (severely damaged or killed at 24 degrees F)
TYPICAL MAXIMUM HEIGHT: 25'
GROWTH RATE: Moderate
HABIT: Solitary, robust; canopy of about 20 leaves
SALT TOLERANCE: Low
DROUGHT TOLERANCE: High (when established)
SOIL REQUIREMENTS: Widely adaptable
LIGHT REQUIREMENTS: Moderate; high
NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS: Moderate
POPULAR USES: Specimen tree
HUMAN HAZARDS: None
POPULAR OR RECOMMENDED CULTIVARS: None

COMMENTS: Formerly known as Neodypsis decaryi, the triangle palm is one of the most unique of all landscape palms in appearance, due to the very precise three-planed arrangement of the leaves. Though a true crownshaft is not formed, the tightly overlapping and bulging leaf bases form a stocky triangle above the short trunk. The leaf bases are covered with brownish-red hairs that easily rub off. Long 'reins' frequently hang down from the blue-green leaves. The stiff, planar canopy of triangle palm results in a very bold and formal appearance that dominates the area of the landscape it inhabits. Consequently, its placement should be carefully considered. Though drought tolerant in humid subtropical and tropical zones once established, a triangle palm requires periodic irrigation as it settles into place. In dry summer regions such as California, irrigation is essential. The planting site should be well-drained, and regular fertilization is a must on poor, infertile soils. The leaves are damaged at temperatures below freezing, and older specimens may require two years or more to renew a full canopy after a severe freeze.