Phoenix sylvestris - The Date Palm 

The Phoenix date palm tree growing in it's wild habitat

The Date Palm - Phoenix Palm Tree

The plant: Grown outside in tropical conditions the Phoenix Palms grow into tall trees. The Phoenix dactylifera is the edible date. However, when varieties of Phoenix are grown in moderate sized pots, they make attractive houseplants. The Phoenix canariensis has tall, arching fronds with narrow spiky leaflets. The Phoenix roebelinii, the Miniature Date Palm, is a more compact version with delicate feathery, arching fronds, rarely exceeding 1.2m. Tiny yellow pom-pom flowers give rise to tiny beige or black seeds.

Its Needs: These Phoenix palms enjoy strong light including some direct sun for part of the day. Light shade is also tolerated. Warm humid growing conditions promote palm growth. A rich fertile potting medium should be used which affords good drainage.

Care: Water well through the growing season but sparingly over winter. Apply a monthly feed of liquid fertiliser. Mist leaves in hot weather, clean fronds with a soft damp cloth or a gentle showering. Watch for scale pest, mealy bug and red spider mite. In particular, mealybugs can 'nest' deep in the part where the leaves join the main stem.

Good for: The larger Phoenix palms are good for feature plants in larger spaces such as a conservatory. The Phoenix roebelinii, being smaller makes a beautiful, graceful palm, best grown on its own. Easy to maintain.

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