Re: Re(2): Roystonea
Hi Barry,
>Do you suppose R. borinquena could be grown here in coastal central
>california? IM guessing since my Archontophoenix cunninghamiana survived
>two years of "usual" winters (and it was a seedling too) that R.
>borinquena could possibly survive here?
From what I can understand, the important factor is protection from
cold, drying winds - these seem to do more damage than anything else.
I've found that with Syagurus as well - cold down to 26F presents no
problem - higher temperatures and drying winds almost defoliate the
youngest fronds, causing the leaflets to dry up for at least half
their length.
The reference cited by Beverly states that Roystonea borinquena
tolerates cool tropical areas especially if planted in the shelter of
a tall hedge/buliding etc. I would have thought that if you can
overwinter Archontophoenix cunninghamimana, you should have little
problem with this species of Roystonea. Certainly worth a try - I'm
going to and we don't have the benefit of your higher summer
temperatures.
Dave
