What to plant under big self-cleaning palms

[Al in Kona]

What do you plant under a big self-cleaning palm such as a Coconut, Royal palm , etc.? When a big heavy leaf falls there is always the possibility of damage to whatever is planted below. Then too, compact root competition right below the palm makes digging next to impossible. Bromeliads do well for me under this Cocos nucifera. If a fallen leaf does do enough damage to require replacement, I simply remove it and put another back in its place. Here's a pic showing how it currently looks below this tall Coconut palm.

[Jim in Los Altos]

Al, bromeliads have become the most common companion plant in my garden. They're tough, attractive, and require almost no care. Your Cocos bromeliad understory looks fantastic.

[Danilopez89]

That look awesome Al. So much color!

I love how they are climbing the coconut palm.

[Justin]

Great idea! Mine are just starting to get to the size where I will need some of this.

[Josh-O]

brilliant idea Al!!

I just planted a few roystonea borinquena at my Vista garden and now I know what mi going to plant under them.

[Moose]

Crotons can take a good beating from fallen fronds with their quick recovery. And they are certainly colorful.