Are dwarf palm trees recommended for landscaping?

Small palm species are good landscaping choices for homeowners seeking a tropical look. They lend themselves to both natural and formal arrangements, and some make good ground covers.

Most small palms grow no taller than 12 feet and are shade-tolerant, though some dwarf palm trees prefer full sun. They include parlor palms, bamboo palms, diamond palms, green needle palms and lady palms. Some, like the pygmy palm, are tropical or subtropical and cannot tolerate cold. On the other hand, palmettos, Mazari palms and some dwarf banana palms are cold-hardy. Some species have thorns and are unsuitable for plantings near children's play areas.