Bismarckia groups.

[Gileno Machado]

I have just planted four juvenile Bismarckias, grown from seed, in an unusual displacement. 

The idea was to create a massive and compact hemispherical volume in the future, the bluish hue in contrast with the bare surrounding lawn. The spacement was established as 2 m to the center, triangle display , expecting that the central Palm will probably prevail, in slow growth, eventually forcing the other 3 a bit downwards, aiming to hide the trunks in the early stage.

This place is actually the main entrance to the local Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico do Recife), in Northeast Brazil, still in process of expansion and enrichment of many plant collections along with the preservation of several hectares of pristine Atlantic Forest around.

I've tried to avoid the classic recommended spacement between Bizzies, at least 10-12 meters, because the larger groups I've seen don't usually look so aestetically attractive as adults, when the color contrast is missing against the sky.

I'd appreciate very much any comments, opinions & ideas, thanks.

[Really full garden]

I think they are too close. I too like more natural groupings and detest rows.

[krisinmexico]

glieno, my first thought was...TOO CLOSE!  however, after reading your description of the idea, i bet it will look wonderful in years to come. it will be a dramatic canopy effect. i look forward to future photos. well done.cheers, kris

[dmc]

My humble opinion is there to close to each other

[Palm Tree Jim]

Thinking out over the next 5-10 years.......to close.

[richnorm]

Maybe you could keep the outer ones trimmed down to maybe just three leaves for a few years so the centre is higher?  One of the most amazing plantings I have seen was a bunch of Queens mass planted in a clump.  It might have helped that they were mature specimens when planted but was an inspired decision that really worked.  I have seen this done with (stripped) Washingtonias too and it can be very effective.  I feel having space around will help.  Good for you for trying something different!

[Steve Mac]

Hi Gileno, you know what you are doing and why, you have not made a mistake. You have deliberately chosen the road less travelled.  

I agree with the Kiwi,   "Good for you for trying something different! " 

When they are large and bunched they will provide and support a microclimate and habitat for insects birds and animals that would otherwise be unable to live there. It is like putting down an artificial reef underwater which then swarms with life.

Crowded is not wrong it is just not for everyone.

 

[sergiskan]

To me, will be awesome in the future!

[Kris]

Dear Brother,

They are looking nice.Please keep us updated as they grow in the coming years..

Love,

Kris.

 

[Gileno Machado]

Thanks for the replies amigos. I'll keep you posted about the development of this group

 

[el-blanco]

Your plan sounds great!!

 

[Really full garden]

This is a grouping very similar to yours except for the spacing. I planted these 8 years ago and they were smaller than those in your photo.

I think a mass under planting of Portea or Aechmea blanchetiana bromeliads would be spectacular .

[JJD]

Another planting option is to use the rare Philippine clumping green Bismarckia 

[TexasColdHardyPalms]

Great color on those @Scottgt

[Really full garden]

1 hour ago, TexasColdHardyPalms said:

Great color on those @Scottgt

It was almost dark when I took that photo . In full sun they are almost white !

[Gileno Machado]

Very Nice group Scott...your idea for companion plants also sounds great. I guess 8 years old bizzies look at their best, especially against dark green backgrounds. One of the most attractive species, I've planted many around...

Beautiful clump in the Philippines also, thanks for posting. Green Bismarckias (Mayotte) are not easily found around these parts, JJD, I wonder how the trio used to look in the early stages. It looks very nice even now...

[Gileno Machado]

[JJD]

On 8/8/2017, 6:15:34, Gileno Machado said:

Beautiful clump in the Philippines also, thanks for posting. Green Bismarckias (Mayotte) are not easily found around these parts, JJD, I wonder how the trio used to look in the early stages. It looks very nice even now...

Gileno, the green Bismarchias are located in a provincial municipal garden, the photos were taken 2 years ago when I noticed them while driving past, unfortunately I don't have any photos of the early years. Green Bismarckias seem to be much more common in the Philippines then the sliver/blue form.

[Keith N Tampa (ex SoJax)]

On 8/3/2017, 9:44:27, Gileno Machado said:

I have just planted four juvenile Bismarckias, grown from seed, in an unusual displacement. 

The idea was to create a massive and compact hemispherical volume in the future, the bluish hue in contrast with the bare surrounding lawn. The spacement was established as 2 m to the center, triangle display , expecting that the central Palm will probably prevail, in slow growth, eventually forcing the other 3 a bit downwards, aiming to hide the trunks in the early stage.

This place is actually the main entrance to the local Botanical Garden (Jardim Botânico do Recife), in Northeast Brazil, still in process of expansion and enrichment of many plant collections along with the preservation of several hectares of pristine Atlantic Forest around.

I've tried to avoid the classic recommended spacement between Bizzies, at least 10-12 meters, because the larger groups I've seen don't usually look so aestetically attractive as adults, when the color contrast is missing against the sky.

I'd appreciate very much any comments, opinions & ideas, thanks.

They are too close to grow into their typical shape, but they will lean away from one another to get adequate light.  Some, (maybe the one in the center), will outgrow the others.  Their growth rate might be slowed due to the competition with their neighbors, but they'll look interesting regardless.  

[donalt]

I admire you for trying something different ! I hear always that palms should not be planted so close together. Yet, I have seen mature specimens closely planted that are fascinating and beautiful ! Go for it !