Brahea armata

This slow-growing solitary palm will grow only one trunk during its lifetime. It's an excellent foliage plant; outside hot-summer areas, it takes decades to become a stately tree.

If you have a pot with multiple trunks in it, that's because multiple separate palm trees were germinated in the pot. The good news is that you won't need to thin out suckers over time to maintain the number of trunks you started out with.

This palm holds its leaves for a long time, creating a beard or skirt on the trunk. If you want, you can always prune off the beard for a cleaner look.

This palm has low fertilizer needs. If you choose, you can fertilize it three times a year. Fertilizing at spring equinox, summer solstice and fall equinox will allow for a winter rest. Be sure to feed your palm with a fertilizer that contains micronutrients, especially if you see yellowing leaves or yellow spots on the leaves.

An exceptional foliage plant thanks to its slow growth and brilliant silvery-blue color. This palm contributes to the oasis-style garden, especially when it's mixed with cactus and other drought-tolerant plants like euphorbias. It also makes an unusual and yet compelling addition to the Mediterranean garden when mixed with lavender, rosemary, and olives.

One of the most drought-tolerant palms for California. More than one friend has successfully grown this species by planting it with an initial soaking and then never watering it again! This approach is not a smart bet in our driest, hottest areas, however.