How Much Does a Palm Tree Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $150 - $800
Wondering how much a palm tree costs? The average cost of a palm tree is $250, but prices can vary anywhere from $100 to $2,000 or more, depending on the size and type of tree.
Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical paradise or seeking lush, breezy greenery for your landscape, a palm tree makes the perfect addition. If you have space limitations or a set budget in mind, there are different types of trees to fit nearly any requirement. Let’s take a look at how much a new palm tree typically costs.
- Average
- $250
- Low end
- $100
- high end
- $2,000
Palm Tree Cost Factors
Many factors play into how much a palm tree costs. These are your main cost variables to consider.
Types
There are over 2,600 varieties of palm trees in different shapes and sizes, with different trunks and fronds (palm leaves). Many cost under $400, but taller and less common varieties can get pricey. Here are some of the most popular types and their typical costs.
| Palm Tree Type | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Bottle Palm | Stout, bulging bottle-shaped trunk, arching foliage | $50–$100 |
| Chinese Palm | Leather-like fronds, silvery blue-green color | $50–$100 |
| Coconut Palm | Quintessential palm tree, tall and slender, bears coconut fruit | $400–$1,000+ |
| Date Palm | Produces date fruit, needs ample space to grow | $200–$300 |
| Diamond Palm | Massive fan-shaped fronds, towering stature | $100–$200+ |
| Fishtail Palm | Feathery fishtail-shaped fronds, very cold sensitive | $75–$100 |
| Needle Palm | Very cold tolerant, shrublike | $100–$300 |
| Princess Palm | Small, stocky, called “hurricane palm” | $75–$100 |
| Pygmy Palm | Thick trunk, long feathery foliage | $50–$60 |
| Royal Palm | Tall, thin trunks reaching upwards of 70 feet tall, native to southern California | $200–$300 |
| Sentry Palm | Curly fronds, popular indoor palm | $175–$400 |
| Triangle Palm | Overlapping frond structures on three sides, green-gray or blue-gray foliage | $250+ |
Size
The larger and more mature the palm tree is, the more it will cost. That’s why purchasing and planting a small palm tree is the least expensive option, and transplanting a large palm tree will cost the most.
| Palm Size | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Small (2 to 4 feet) | $15–$50 |
| Medium (4 to 5 feet) | $100–$200 |
| Large (6 feet or more) | $150–$2,000+ |
Labor
The cost to plant a tree professionally typically ranges between $50 and $150 per hour for labor, plus the cost of the tree. Larger trees will need more than one professional to plant them. It’s best to get a customized quote from your palm tree specialist to determine your installation cost. Keep in mind that you’ll need to hire a professional tree planting service that specializes in palm trees for best results.
Ongoing Expenses for a New Palm Tree
Once you plant your palm tree, there are a few ongoing costs to consider. Here are the main expenses to plan for to keep your palm trees happy and healthy.
Water and Fertilizer
A new palm needs consistent watering for the first couple of months after planting, so you may see more water usage during that time. It’s also a good idea to budget for laying down high-quality, slow-release fertilizer once per year in early spring to help with new growth.
Mulch
Mulch costs an average of $0.40 to $0.60 per square foot. Mulch helps keep a palm tree root system hydrated and insulated against extreme weather, so it’s a good investment to factor into your maintenance budget.
Maintenance
The cost of tree trimming for a palm tree ranges from $100 to $1,500 based on the height of the tree and the amount of pruning needed. Palm trees are generally low maintenance once planted, but they often need pruning once or twice annually to remove dead or damaged fronds. Keep in mind that yearly maintenance costs are lower if you DIY tasks like pruning and trimming.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Planting your own palm is a doable DIY project, but selecting a variety can feel overwhelming since there are so many to choose from. Plus, planting your own tree can be challenging, especially if it’s a tall tree. A local palm tree specialist can help you choose the perfect palm for your space and your area's climate. If it’s within your budget, it’s always best to seek help from a pro to help you grow a healthy, beautiful palm.
Ways to Save Money on a Palm Tree
If you’re ready to purchase and plant a palm tree but want to reduce costs as much as possible, use these tips and tricks to save a few bucks.
Visit multiple nurseries or garden centers to compare prices for the same species or variety of palm trees.
Explore community plant exchanges or sales where individuals may offer palm trees at lower prices or even for free.
Consider buying smaller or younger palms and allowing them to grow over time.
If you have the necessary skills and tools, consider planting the palm tree yourself rather than hiring a professional palm tree specialist.
Buying multiple palm trees from the same supplier may result in bulk discounts or reduced delivery costs
Frequently Asked Questions
A palm tree’s lifespan can be anywhere from 40 to 100 years or more, depending on the type, although certain species of Date Palm trees can live even longer than 200 years. However, in the grander scheme of hardwood trees, palm trees have relatively short lifespans. Climate, care, and species greatly influence a palm tree's longevity. Proper maintenance, regular watering, and protection from tree diseases and pests can extend the lifespan of your palm.
Palm trees are relatively easy to grow, especially when planting different varieties in their native habitats. While regular watering is crucial in the first couple of months while the palm develops a strong root ball, palms typically require minimal maintenance once they’re established. You’ll need to prune palm fronds once or twice per year to keep it in tip-top shape.
Palm trees’ water needs vary based on factors like species, climate, and soil conditions. Generally, young palms require regular watering to establish strong root systems. Once established, many palm varieties are moderately drought-tolerant and can withstand periods of reduced water. However, regular watering is crucial during dry spells or hot weather, especially for palms in sandy or fast-draining soils. It's important to strike a balance, avoiding overwatering that can lead to root rot and under-watering that can stress the tree. Monitoring soil moisture and adjusting watering frequency based on the specific needs of the palm tree is key to maintaining its health.