Areca palms are slow to moderate growers for sun or shade and can reach heights of 15 to 20 feet. They’re wider at the top – sometimes 5 to 7 feet or more in diameter – so allow enough room for the palm to grow a tropical canopy over nearby plants. 25 Gallon Areca Palm Trees. Zone 10 is best, though in warmer areas of Zone 9B that border 10A, you can use an areca in a protected spot.