Palm
Macarthur Palm
Ptychosperma macarthurii
Varieties We Carry
StandardPtychosperma macarthurii
Sizes & Pricing
15 galFrom$275.00
Fresh this week. Last restocked Mar 11.
LightFull Sun, Part Sun, Part Shade
WaterHigh
Mature size15-25 feet × 6-10 feet
About Macarthur Palm
MacArthur Palm (Ptychosperma macarthurii) is a clustering tropical palm from New Guinea and Australia with slender multi-stemmed canes topped by arching pinnate fronds and small red fruits. Prized for shade tolerance and graceful tropical form, it makes a striking understory or patio specimen. In NE Florida (zone 9b) it requires a sheltered microclimate and frost protection, as it is most reliable in zone 10 and warmer. Starting at $275.00.
Plant details
- Bloom Season
- Year-round
- Flower Color
- White
- Growth Rate
- Moderate
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Soil
- Clay, Sandy, Loam, Acidic, Well-drained
Best planting months
Recommended forZone 9b · St. Augustine, FL
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This monthGood windowOther months
Seasonal care
In bloom. Good planting window.
In bloom. Higher water demand in summer heat. Can be planted with extra attention to watering.
In bloom. Ideal planting window.
In bloom. Retains foliage through winter. May need protection below 25°F.
Care essentials
Light
Adaptable from full sun to dense shade; MacArthur palm performs best in partial shade in NE Florida, where its preferred tropical understory conditions can be simulated. Protect from cold north winds.
Water
Requires consistently moist soil and high humidity; water regularly and deeply. In NE Florida, supplemental irrigation is needed during dry periods. This palm has no drought tolerance and suffers in dry conditions.
Soil & Fertilizer
Plant in any well-drained soil amended with organic matter; use a palm-specific slow-release fertilizer (8-2-12 with micronutrients) three times per year to prevent magnesium and manganese deficiencies common in Florida. Note: best suited to zone 10+; protect from freezes in 9b.
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Common questions
Is Macarthur Palm a good plant for St. Augustine?
Macarthur Palm is a palm for Zone 9b coastal Florida gardens, reaching 15-25 feet × 6-10 feet.
Care information verified from
Last reviewed March 2026. Our care guidance comes from trusted horticulture sources and decades of helping St. Augustine gardeners. Conditions here can vary dramatically from one area to the next, so come ask us and we'll tailor it to your yard.