Palm trees are in the family Arecaceae and grow best in hot climates. They are usually tall and unbranched with a crown of large cleft leaves. Well known palm trees include the date and coconut palms, but there are about 2600 species of palm trees, most of them living in tropical, sub-tropical and warm temperate climates.
Palms are one of the best known and most widely planted tree families. They have held an important role for humans throughout much of history. Many common products and foods come from palms and they are often planted in public parks and gardens.
In the Enchanted Forest different trees have their own personalities and characteristics. Spend some time around trees and nature, visit parks. Sit under a tree or quietly stand with your back against its trunk and enjoy being in its presence. Notice how different trees make you feel. Try to determine its inner character and spirit.
The meaning of palm
In the past palms were symbols of victory, peace, and fertility.
The palm is the Tree of Peace, and has a powerfully calming energy associated with it. It is also protective and it has been said that even the leaves can prevent evil from entering into an area. They are an easy plant to grow indoors and provide a protective energy for the home environment.
In Roman times the palm branch was a symbol of triumph and victory. The Romans rewarded champions of the games and celebrated success in war with palm branches. Palm leaves were often strewn out as a red carpet welcoming returning Roman warriors from battle.
Today palms are a popular symbol for the tropics, sunny skies and relaxing vacations. This fits with the palm tree being largely a solar symbol. Consider the radiating fronds bursting forth at the very height of a towering climb. The head of the palm is visually comparable to our glowing sun.
As dream symbols palm trees symbolize our ability to rise above conflict and spread our light brilliantly - letting it shine over the din of petty concerns - rising above disillusionment like the sun itself.