TRIANGLE PALM

The triangle palm, native to the southeasternmost region of Madagascar, is an extraordinary plant known for its ability to thrive in poor, dry soils. In the United States, it has successfully adapted to environments in southern Florida, southern Texas, and the Hawaiian Islands. This hardy palm can grow to impressive heights between 25 and 35 feet with a crown spread of approximately 15 feet. It flourishes best under full sun but also adapts well to partial shade conditions.

The triangle palm’s pinnately compound leaves or fronds can extend up to 10 feet long and feature an upper half that droops gracefully. The lower part of each frond forms a distinctive cupped triangular shape called the leaf petiole. Fronds emerge from the top of its trunk in three distinct rows that create a unique triangular pattern as petioles stack upon one another.

Its bluish-green leaflets are about 2 feet long with smooth edges and form a “V” shape by sitting opposite each other on the rachis. The trunk is dark gray and robust with noticeable leaf scars despite its generally smooth appearance.

In springtime, small light yellow flowers bloom near the base of lower leaves; these inflorescences can grow up to 5 feet long. Each fruit produced is egg-shaped and measures around an inch long—green when immature but turning yellowish-white upon ripening.

The name “triangle palm” aptly describes its unique triangular formation at the top where fronds emerge at three distinct points along its trunk—a remarkable example of nature’s intricate design.