Canary Island Date Palm (Phoenix canariensis): Majestic Feather Palm for Landscapes

Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis) is a massive, solitary palm with a thick, columnar trunk (often with a distinctive diamond pattern of leaf scars) and a huge crown of arching, pinnate, deep green fronds up to 15–20 feet long. It is one of the most imposing ornamental palms.

Growth

Slow-growing to 40–60 feet tall with a 20–40 foot spread. The trunk can reach 3–4 feet in diameter. It produces edible but not very tasty dates. Very drought- and salt-tolerant once established.

Culture

Full sun; well-drained soil. Regular water speeds growth. Hardy in zones 9–11; marginal in 8b with protection. Requires ample space. Prune only dead fronds.

Taxonomy

• Family: Arecaceae
• Genus: Phoenix
• Species: canariensis