Planting Bougainvillea at Base of Coconut Palm? Bad Idea—Roots Compete, Palm Shades Bougainvillea

Can a 6-month-old coconut palm and bougainvillea share a spot? Will palm kill bougainvillea?

Don't Do It

• Coconut palm roots will outcompete bougainvillea.
• Palm canopy will shade bougainvillea, preventing bloom.
• Rule: Nothing at the base of a palm.

Separate Them

Give each its own space. Both will perform better alone.