Sydney Palm Tree Varieties and Care

Palms add a lush, tropical feel to Sydney gardens — but not all palm trees are easy to live with. Some species are low-maintenance and self-cleaning, while others constantly drop fronds, attract pests, or require regular pruning.

At GDE Tree Services Sydney, we’ve been trimming, cleaning, pruning and removing palm trees since 1987. Here’s a guide to the most common palm varieties and how to choose the right one for your property.Low-Maintenance Palm Varieties in Sydney

These species are ideal for homeowners wanting a tropical look without the ongoing upkeep.

1. Bangalow Palm (Archontophoenix cunninghamiana)

• Native to NSW rainforests and thrives in Sydney’s climate.
• Self-cleaning – fronds drop naturally as they die.
• Non-invasive roots, ideal near pools or fences.
• Occasionally attracts fruit bats when in seed but otherwise low fuss.

2. Foxtail Palm (Wodyetia bifurcata)

• Self-cleaning and elegant with its feathery fronds.
• Excellent for modern landscapes and street plantings.
• Requires minimal pruning and moderate watering.

3. Alexander Palm (Archontophoenix alexandrae)

• Fast-growing, narrow trunk, suitable for tight spaces.
• Self-cleaning, minimal frond mess.
• Works well in clusters or lining driveways.

High-Maintenance or Problem Palms

These species often require professional attention or eventual removal.

1. Queen Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana)

• Popular but messy — produces heavy fruit that drops and ferments.
• Attracts flying foxes and pests such as palm weevils.
• Requires regular trimming and fruit removal to prevent stains and smell.

2. Cocos Palm (Arecastrum romanzoffianum)

• The most common nuisance palm in Sydney.
• Fruit attracts bats, rats, and ibis.
• Sharp fronds and seed pods clog gutters and stain paving.
• Often removed due to safety and hygiene issues.

3. Canary Island Date Palm (Phoenix canariensis)

• Stunning but extremely high-maintenance.
• Fronds are heavy and spiny — dangerous to prune without equipment.
• Requires frequent trimming to stay tidy.
• Can harbour palm weevils and scale insects if neglected.

Unique & Decorative Palms

Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata)

• Actually a succulent, not a true palm.
• Perfect for courtyards and pots — low-maintenance and drought-tolerant.
• Doesn’t require pruning and won’t outgrow small spaces.

Kentia Palm (Howea forsteriana)

• Iconic indoor/outdoor palm native to Lord Howe Island.
• Slow-growing and elegant with minimal maintenance.
• Ideal for shaded gardens or patios in Sydney’s coastal suburbs.

Where to Safely Plant Palms in Sydney

Palms look great around pools, patios, and driveways, but placement matters:

Good spots:

• Along fences or boundaries with adequate root space
• Around pools (choose non-fruiting species)
• In well-drained, sunny soil
• As feature trees away from powerlines and roofs

Avoid planting palms:

• Under powerlines or near overhead cables
• Too close to house foundations or retaining walls
• Near driveways where falling fronds could damage vehicles
• In shaded, damp areas where root rot and pests thrive

Palms That Attract Pests

Watch out for species prone to:

• Fruit bats and rats: Queen and Cocos Palms
• Palm weevils: Canary Island Date Palms
• Scale insects: Any neglected palm
• Mosquito breeding: Overwatered or poorly drained areas

Regular inspections and trimming help prevent infestations.

For ongoing maintenance, our Tree Pruning & Trimming Sydney team can safely remove dead fronds, seed pods, and pest-infested growth.