The Foxtail Palm is perhaps the most beautiful palm tree for landscape use. They cause no problems if planted in the right position. In fact, as a tree lopper, I would have to say that I’d go broke if Foxtails were the only palms in Brisbane.
Foxtails were only discovered in 1981. They were found in Macarthur Gorge in Queensland. It is a heritage listed area, showing the benefit of valuing our natural resources.
Its species name is because of the fronds tendency to grow leaves in only two directions. The common name, Foxtail, is due to the appearance of the fronds caused by that same tendency.
Cape Melville, the Foxtail Palm’s original home, is covered with granite boulders. The harsh environmnt has bred a hardy palm. It has prepared the Foxtail Palm well for its export to many countries as a prized landscape tree.
In Brisbane they have been grown for around 20 years and their height still isn’t a problem for most home owners. Still, tree loppers are guns for hire. We actually develop an affectionate affinity for trees that don’t cause problems, so it is with reluctance that we understand the need for Foxtails to be removed when utility demands it. The only tree lopping required for these palms is removal as they are self-cleaning. A quote for Foxtail Palm removal would usually be around $220 or less.
