So you’ve noticed something different… “what on earth is that growing out of my palm tree“? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. It’s a little unnerving when you see something odd sprouting from your palm tree. Is it parasitic? Is it normal? Is it some sort of alien lifeform taking refuge in my treasured palm tree? (probably not) Let’s find out:
Table of Contents
What is growing out of my palm tree?
There are a number of things that could be growing out of your palm tree, the main ones to look out for are the following:
Anthuriums
Bromeliads
Ficus Aurea
Ganoderma Bud Rot
Lichen
Orchids
Tillandsia Species
Below we will go into further detail about each one and what they look like so you can make a more informed decision about what is growing out of your palm tree.
Anthuriums
The anthurium is a flowering plant that is native to the tropical regions of the Americas. The flowers grow on a spadix, which is a thick, fleshy stalk that is surrounded by a leaf-like bract called a spathe.
The spathe can be any color from white to pink to red, and the flowers are usually some shade of red.
They look great in combination with palm trees and are scientifically known as an epiphyte, which means a plant that grows on another. So nothing to worry about!
Bromeliads
Bromeliads are a type of flowering plant that is native to the tropical regions of the Americas. They have rosettes of leaves that are arranged in a spiral around a central stem.
The leaves are often brightly colored, and the flowers grow on long stalks that protrude from the center of the rosette.
They look fantastic when planted with palm trees and are classed as an epiphyte, which means a plant that lives on the surface of another. So there’s nothing to be concerned about.
Ficus Aurea
Ficus aurea, also known as the golden fig or silver leaf fig, is a species of fig that is native to the tropical regions of the Americas. It has glossy, dark green leaves that are often variegated with yellow or white
The flowers grow in clusters and are small and inconspicuous. The fruit is a small, round drupe that is yellow or orange when ripe.
This plant is often used as an ornamental plant in combination with palm trees. It is not parasitic and is not harmful to your palm tree.
However, it should be noted that when it is young, it does not harm the palm tree; but as it matures and the roots touch the ground, they may be somewhat destructive. It will strangle the palm tree and become solitary.
Ganoderma Bud Rot
Ganoderma bud rot is a type of fungi that affects palms. It causes the buds of the palm to rot and fall off, and can eventually kill the tree if left unchecked.
This fungus is usually found in humid, wet conditions and can be controlled with fungicides. If you think your palm tree has Ganoderma bud rot, it is best to seek professional help from a palm tree specialist.
Lichen
Lichen is a type of symbiotic organism that is made up of algae and fungi. It grows on the surface of other plants, rocks, or trees
Lichen comes in a wide variety of colors, including green, yellow, orange, red, pink, purple, and brown. It is not parasitic and does not harm the palm tree it is growing on.
Orchids
Orchids are a type of flowering plant that is native to the tropical regions of the world. They have long, thin leaves and flowers that grow in clusters
The flowers are usually brightly colored and have a distinctive shape. The most common colors are white, pink, and purple.
Orchids are not parasitic and do not harm the palm tree they are growing on. In fact, they often look quite beautiful growing on palm trees.
Tillandsia Species
Tillandsia is a genus of flowering plants that is native to the tropical regions of the Americas. They have narrow, strap-like leaves and small flowers that grow in clusters
The flowers are typically some shade of blue or purple. Tillandsia is not parasitic and does not harm the palm tree it is growing on.
Conclusion
So hopefully this article has shown you some plants that can be grown in conjunction with palm trees as well as some that can be destructive:
- Anthuriums: They look fantastic with palm trees and are scientifically referred to as an epiphyte. Nothing to worry about!
- Bromeliads: Another great option is also an epiphyte.
- Ficus Aurea: A beautiful plant that becomes destructive when mature.
- Ganoderma Bud Rot: A type of fungi that affects palms and can be controlled with fungicides.
- Lichen: A type of symbiotic organism that is not parasitic
- Orchids: A type of flowering plant that is not parasitic
- Tillandsia Species: Another great option that is not parasitic.
People Also Ask
What are the things growing out of my palm tree?
The fruit on a palm tree’s top is the result of a palm tree’s normal reproductive cycle or its fruits. The majority of these fruits are edible, with coconuts and dates among the most well-known examples.
What is growing on my palm tree trunk?
This is most likely lichen, which is a type of symbiotic organism that is made up of algae and fungi. It grows on the surface of other plants, rocks, or trees and does not harm the palm tree it is growing on.
What are the berries that grow on palm trees?
Acai berries are actually fruits of the acai palm (Euterpe oleracea), a plant that grows in subtropical climates. After several years, this tree grows to be very tall and produces acai berries. During this time, smaller outgrowths will bear fruit as well. Acai berries get purple when ripe and resemble blues.
What are the seed pods on palm trees?
The palm seeds are contained within the pods, which are clusters of red balls that develop near the flowers. What does a palm seed look like? That is entirely determined by the type of palm tree. Some are tiny and bright crimson, similar to holly berries, while others measure as much as a bowling ball and are creamy white.
