The King palm (scientific name: Archontophoenix Alexandrae, synonym: Ptychosperma alexandrae), also known as the Alexander palm, Alexandra palm, King Alexander palm, Northern Bangalow palm is a beautiful and elegant palm native to Queensland, Australia. It is a commonly cultivated ornamental in the tropics and subtropics. It is very similar to the Royal palm tree.

The King palm tree growth rate is moderately fast (1-3 feet per year). The majestic tree grows up to a height of 50-80 feet with a spread of 10-15 feet. This wonderful Australian ornamental has a solitary, tall, smooth, ringed with leaf scars, light gray, often enlarged at the base trunk, about 1-1.5 feet in diameter and a beautiful crown of long (about 6-7 feet) bright green arching pinnate fronds. The leaflets are silvery-white beneath. The Archontophoenix Alexandrae bears cream colored flowers and attractive, 1/2 inch in diameter, round, bright red fruits.

The Archontophoenix Alexandrae grows well in full sun or partial shade. Because it naturally occurs in the coastal rainforests in Australia, this beautiful ornamental tree enjoys humidity and plenty of water. The King palm is cold hardy and will take as low as 28 F. The hardiness zone is 10-11.

The Archontophoenix Alexandrae is propagated by seeds within few weeks.

King palms are desirable ornamentals in Australia and around the world. They look wonderful when planted as solitary plants or in groupings (clusters) of two or more. As a solitary plant it can be grown as a focal point.  The Archontophoenix Alexandrae also makes a perfect house plant.

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