Majesty palms (Ravenea spp.) seem to burst from the soil with large fronds delicately swaying in the breeze, much like a water fountain shape. Thriving outdoors in warm U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 9 through 11, these palms grow slowly and may be stunted after transplanting, reports the University of Florida IFAS Lee County Extension. With ideal conditions, a majesty palm can grow relatively large in an outdoor location.
Majesty palms have a wide range of outdoor sizes, from 20 to 40 feet tall, based on the variety. It can take several years for the palm to reach 10 feet tall, depending on the available natural resources. It typically slows its growth rate at the 10-foot mark as the palm directs energy into root development to support the wide frond shape. An outdoor, container-bound palm's growth rate depends on the root space available in the pot. Once the palm begins to circle its roots around the container's edges, it cannot grow much larger until it is transplanted into a larger pot or into the garden.
Although many palm species prefer full sunlight conditions, this particular tree thrives in partial shade. When it grows in its native Madagascar, taller trees typically flank this palm and provide shade throughout the day. The frond sprays pick up ambient and dappled sunlight spots for optimum photosynthesis. If you plant a majesty palm in full sunlight or heavy shade, it cannot acclimate to these extreme light exposures and growth stunting can result. Match the majesty palm with a tall tree specimen in your yard to encourage vigorous growth in a partial shade location.
Spring, summer and fall are the main growing seasons for majesty palms. Take advantage of these long, warm days and fertilize your palm for rapid growth potential. Because they require well-drained soil, where nutrients can be scarce over time, these palms can experience slow growth. Between April and September, spread up to four applications of 12-4-12-4 fertilizer, a combination of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium that is sometimes labeled as palm fertilizer. Apply 1 pound of this fertilizer for every 100 square feet of a majesty palm's under-canopy area. As the nutrients move into the soil, root absorption takes over and provides critical elements to the fronds for rapid growth.
Majesty palms cannot rapidly grow without ample soil moisture, especially during the warmer months. Roots spread in search of water to keep the fronds stiff for energy production and growth. Spread mulch around the palm's base without allowing it to touch the trunk to conserve soil moisture. Water your palm diligently during the summer to maintain vigorous growth in warm conditions.