Washingtonia filifera ‘Truth or Consequences’

Global warming a problem in your area? Grow palms! The seed from this cold-hardy form of the Southwest US native, Washingtonia filifera, is from a planting in Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, where it has reportedly endured 0 degrees F on several occasions. The cold in NM is obviously a dry cold, and East Coast cold is much more wet, but the potential for experimental gardeners is exciting. Mature plants reach 60′ tall with 8′ wide fronds, but concentrate on trying to keep it alive here. Plants seem to gain hardiness as they age, so grow it indoors in a container when young and add lots of winter protection in colder zones when it goes outside.