What Is the Root Base of a Queen Palm Tree?

The Queen palm tree is a popular one to plant near concrete sidewalks in the southeast U.S. due to its small, short root base. While this makes the tree relatively easy to transplant, it also makes it easy to blow down. The tree is well known for uprooting in strong winds and hurricanes.

Identification

The Queen palm tree, common name for Syagrus Romanzoffianum, is also known as Cocos Plumose. It was brought to the U.S. from Brazil and is popular in subtropical and tropical climates for its appearance and low maintenance. According to the Florida Palm Trees website, the Queen palm has a smooth trunk, feathered leaves that grow up rather than out, and can reach a height of 50 feet. It has a weak, shallow root system.

Root Base

The Queen palm's root base is known as a noninvasive type so the tree is popular to plant around swimming pools and walkways. As the tree grows, the roots spread wider but only usually as wide as the fronds, which can spread 12 feet. The roots are from 1 to 4 feet deep. It is recommended that the tree be watered in a wider area as the tree grows to give the roots the moisture they need.

Transplanting

Because of its root base, the Queen palm is relatively easy to transplant. The University of Florida notes that palms have a large number of roots from a small area at the base of the trunk and these roots stay the same diameter as when they first emerge from the root-initiation zone. In Queen palms, survival of existing roots cut in transplanting is critical because so few new ones will be produced.

Potting

The Queen palm is easily potted because of its short and small root base. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors in containers for a time. Because the tree can suffer from micro-nutrient deficiencies, it should be fertilized regularly. Keep the soil moist but not soggy. Once its roots are visible, it's time to transplant the tree to either a larger container or to the yard. It is hardy to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

Support

Because of its shallow root system, tall transplanted trees must be supported to prevent them from toppling over. The University of Florida warns that deep planting is not a substitute for mechanical support. Wooden supports must not be nailed into the trunk as any wounds are permanent and allow bacteria to enter the tree. Strap boards to the tree and then nail supports into the boards. Any support should remain in place for a year.