Good plant, mediocre results — what went wrong with my Queen Palm

Queen Palm is clearly a great plant — I can see that from other people's results. Mine has been decent but not spectacular, and I think I know why.

I underestimated the importance of planting in free-draining soil to prevent crown rot in the early stages and paid for it. root bound decline in pots left too long without repotting also knocked the plant back at a critical point. It lives in a Mediterranean or exotic themed garden border which is probably not quite right but it's the best I can do in my space. association with warmth and holiday destinations worldwide is visible but muted. cold weather protection needed in winter for tender varieties gave me hope — there are glimpses of what it could be. Three stars for now with potential for four.