The Foxtail palm (scientific name Wodyetia bifurcata) is one of the most popular and widely distributed exotic flowering plants in tropical and subtropical regions today. The Wodyetia bifurcata was little known 30 years ago. It was found only in a very small part of far northeastern Australia, Queensland and considered as a very rare palm.
In 1978 Wodyeti identified and revealed the Foxtail palm to the world. The Foxtail has become one of the most popular landscape palms in the United States and Asia. Also common in Middle east and commonly found with Bismarck palms in landscaping.
The Wodyetia bifurcata is named the Foxtail palm because the palm’s plumose fronds have the appearance of a fox’s tail. The scientific name is a tribute to Wodyei, who first revealed this pretty plant to botanics and the world.
The beautiful ornamental grows moderately to a height of 25-30 feet. Under proper conditions it can grow 2-3 feet per year. The Wodyetia bifurcata is a solitary palm with a crown of eight to ten arching, plumose and fluffy fronds. It has a neat appearance and is very similar to the Royal palm, but not large. It bears white flowers at the base of the crown. The fruits are large, oval-shaped, green in the early stages and orange-red when ripe.
The Foxtail is adaptable to many environments. The beautiful tropical plant is moderately salt resistant and drought tolerant. It grows best in full sun and requires moderate watering. The Wodyetia bifurcata is hardy to 27 F. It can get some damage, but will recover. There are no major pest problems.
The Foxtail palm can be used as a single specimen in a landscaping design or planted together with other Foxtail palms. It also can make a nice container plant for patios and decks.
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