Palms for Any Climate

Ever wish that you could grow palms in your climate?  I'm sure that these are totally hardy regardless of your hardiness zone!  Seattle artist Kurt Kiefer created the trunks of  "Washingtonia Domus" from recycled telephone poles.

Washingtonia because the leaves are supposed to resemble those of Washingtonia robusta, Domus because they're located in proximity to the Tacoma Dome.  Above the directional signs you may notice lights which illuminate the undersides of the palm fronds at night which is quite dramatic.

So popular was the first installation just off the 26th street freeway exit that another set was comissioned to be placed on D street even closer to the dome.  I like them a little better without the directional signs nailed to the trunks.

 

I understand that they are extraordinarily drought tolerant, are not fussy at all about soil conditions, are hardy in all zones,  and require no pruning at all.  Who could ask for a less demanding plant?

And here we are in the parking lot of the LeMay Car Museum looking at the Tacoma Dome with the Palms on the right.

Want something on a smaller scale? These beauties are outside of a business called Aqua Quip Pool and Spa in Lakewood.  I've had lust in my heart for these for years!

They have all the tough  qualities of the Washingtonia but have the frond shape that I associate with the tropics. at only 20 feet tall, they are ideal for gardens with tighter space.