page_title: Palm tree
section_title: The palm as a symbol
hierarchical_section_title: Palm tree / The palm as a symbol
context_page_description: Palm trees are a botanical family of perennial lianas, shrubs, and trees. They are the only members of the family Arecaceae, which is the only family in the order Arecales. They grow in hot climates.
  Well known palm trees are:
  Date palm
  Coconut palm
  There are about 2600 species of palm trees, most of them living in tropical, subtropical, 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. They are often used in parks and gardens that are in areas that do not have heavy frosts.
  In the past palms were symbols of victory, peace, and fertility. Today palms are a popular symbol for the tropics and for vacations.
context_section_description: The palm branch was a symbol of triumph and victory in Roman times. The Romans rewarded champions of the games and celebrated success in war with palm branches.
  Jews also had a tradition of carrying palm branches during festive times.
  The motto of the University of Southern California is Palmam qui meruit ferat, which means in Latin, "Let him bear the palm who has deserved it".
  Palms appear on the flags and seals of several places where they are native, including those of Haiti, Guam, Florida, South Carolina, and Samoa.
caption: Waving palm leaves to welcome Christ into Jerusalem
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