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Diamond or Joey Palm

The Diamond or Joey palm tree has some of the largest most beautiful leaves of any palm tree on the planet.

When you first spot one you are likely to assume it is not a palm tree at all but a member of another plant family altogether.

There are two varieties of the Joeys.

One with deep emerald green leaves; often referred to as the diamond palm.

The other with a stunning blue color commonly called the blue Joey.

Both have trunks that are subterranean presenting only their leaves above the soil.

Diamond or Joey palm, johannesteijsmannia altifrons

Original photo found here by RuB found here CClicence

Appearance

They are solitary in nature so there’s no worry about them spreading out of control or taking over your garden.

The striking leaves are a long diamond shape, which are deeply corrugated or pleated. They are solid and not divided in any way. No stringy or sagging tips.

Getting to be up to 10 feet long and 6 feet wide, they make a commanding statement in any landscape.

The emerald or diamond Joey palm has deep green on the top of the leaves while the underside is much lighter with a yellow color vein running through the center.

The blue Joey also has green on the top of the leaf but the underside is covered with what appears to be felt whitish/silver or deeper blue in color. This difference makes it even more sought after for landscapes and containers.

The stems or stalks can get up to 10 feet long and are protected with small teeth running down the spine. The trees get whitish color flower clusters- both sexes on the same tree-that are generally around 2-3 feet long. These once pollinated produce a smaller round fruit that ranges from light to a darker brown.

Blue Joey Palm

Care and Growth

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The two types of Joey palm trees are very similar in the growing conditions.

They originate in the lower mountain rain forests of countries like Malaysia and Thailand.

These trees are generally found as understory plants and are threatened in their natural habitats.

This can make it more difficult to find for purchase.

When they are available they are generally more expensive due to their rarity.

Quick info: Scientific names:

Johannesteijsmannia altifrons-- Joey or Diamond palm

Johannesteijsmannia magnifica—Blue Joey palm

Solitary underground trunks, very large elongated diamond shaped fan leaves
Minimum temp 35°F, growth zones 10-11
Shade to deep shade, acidic soil with added material for water retention
Requires lots of water and humidity, protect from wind

The soil should be on the acidic side as they don’t do well in alkaline soil at all.

They need lots of moisture so the water requirements are more demanding than other palms.

Adding a humus mix to the soil for extra water retention will help.

They also require a higher humidity level in the air.

Dry desert climates will be harder for them to thrive in.

You will have to supplement them with enough air born moisture like showers or mist baths to ensure a happy plant.

They are considered a small palm getting only to 12-20 feet tall but can get practically just as wide.

The understory plant they are in their natural habitat will require you to ensure they are kept in part shade to heavy shade.

Be sure to plant in a location that will protect their large leaves from being shredded in the wind.

Joey palms do well indoors or in containers if you meet their growing requirements along with sufficient space.

The reward will be an exceptional plant with striking leaves appearing to grow straight out of the soil.

Display this gorgeous specimen in your "little slice of paradise" where it can be easily seen and appreciated.

NOTE : About Buying Palms

If you are looking to buy palm trees of any kind then I would highly recommend purchasing through the Real Palm Tree Store.

They are a huge nursery based in Florida with connections to many quality growers.

Whether you are ordering from inside the United States, Canada or another part of the world-- ordering one tree for your landscape or many for a commercial project-- I’m confident you won’t be disappointed.

Their customer service is second to none; all products are high quality and backed by a money back 100% satisfaction guarantee.

Make sure to visit real palm trees, ask questions and read the reviews before buying anywhere else.

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More information others have found useful:

Lanscaping with palms gives some placement ideas on what kind to display in certain places in your yard.

Planting explains the best practices for your next tree to get off to a great start.

Growing includes maps of the plant hardiness zone, and definitions for soil types, sun requirements and other commonly used gardening terminology.

Fertilizing helps you determine the best kind, explains what the numbers mean,how to calculate the correct amount and where to put it.

Care covers the basics and pruning explains best practices, plus helps with how much, what to trim and when.

Identification gives you all the different areas to look at. This will assist you in figuring out what kind of tree it is.

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Palm Tree Passion > Types of Palm Trees > Joey Palm