Bismarckia nobilis comes from open grassland areas of Northern and Western Madagascar, where it grows in full sun from an early age. In habitat, mature specimens usually reach 18m (60') with a sturdy, up to 450nn (18") dia., smooth, light brown or grey trunk. The trunk has a slight basal flare and indentations caused by former leaf bases, although the leaves are persistent on newer parts of the trunk. The crown is large and impressive up to 7.5m (25') and almost spherical. It consists of many palmate (fan shaped) leaves up to 3m (10') across on sparsely armed, 1.8m (6') long petioles. Leaf colour is variable between individuals, ranging from light green to silvery blue or occasionally darker blue. The blue forms often produce dark red or bronze coloured leaves when young. Mature specimens are fairly drought tolerant and can survive light frosts with temperatures down to -5°C (23°F) for short periods. They are also not too fussy about soil type, growing in some fairly poor soils, although good drainage is necessary. Bismarckia nobilis is a dioecious species, having separate male and female plants, which can't generally be determined until they flower. Their impressive appearance and adaptability make them a useful specimen palm for larger gardens or landscaping projects and the bluer forms fit in well with Xeriscapes. With good nutrient supply and regular moisture growth rate can be fairly fast at all stages of development.