Butia odorata

This solitary palm will grow only one trunk during its lifetime. 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 loose beard or skirt on the trunk. If you want, you can always prune off the beard for a cleaner look. If fire retardance is a consideration the beard should be removed annually.

With regularly curved, keeled fronds, this feather palm has an elegant look.

Palms are generally heavy feeders, so if you want them growing quickly and looking their best, they should be fertilized at least 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.

Edible fruit tastes like fibrous loquat. Fruit only ripens in areas with warm summers.

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.