Phoenix canariensis aka Canary Island Date Palm

Taxonomy ID: 7081

Phoenix canariensis, also known as the Canary Island date palm or pineapple palm, is a member of the palm family Arecaceae. This evergreen plant is native to the Canary Islands off the coast of Morocco and is a relative of the true date palm, Phoenix dactylifera. It is also the natural symbol of the Canary Islands, along with the canary Serinus canaria. The average size of a Canary Island date palm is truly remarkable, growing up to 60 ft (18 m) with a trunk width of 3 ft (1 m). The straight, unbranched stem is sturdy, with many stumps of dead and fallen leaves on its surface. The flowers are divided into female (yellow-orange) and male (creamy) and are collected in large branched inflorescences. While it is a popular houseplant that is not challenging to grow, it can become invasive in southern California, northern New Zealand, and in riverine wetland and coastal habitats. To thrive, it needs regular watering and abundant sunlight, ideally within 3 feet of a window.

Common names

Canary Island Date Palm, Canary Island Palm, Canary Date Palm, Canary Palm, Pineapple Palm

More information about Canary Island Date Palm

How difficult is it to take care of Canary Island Date Palm

Canary Island Date Palm presents a moderate level of care, which allows plant enthusiasts with some experience to expand their skills and knowledge.

What is the growth pattern and size of Canary Island Date Palm?

Canary Island Date Palm grows vertically and new growth emerges from the top of the plant.

What is the region of origin of Canary Island Date Palm

Canary Island Date Palm’s native range is Southern Europe through Northern Africa to China.

What are the water needs for Canary Island Date Palm

Canary Island Date Palm should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

What is the right soil for Canary Island Date Palm

Canary Island Date Palm loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

What is the sunlight requirement for Canary Island Date Palm

To ensure optimal growth, the Canary Island Date Palm prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

What's the right humidity for Canary Island Date Palm

No extra humidity is necessary for the Canary Island Date Palm. Absorption of water by plants is primarily done through their roots, and soil watering is the most effective method to provide humidity to your plants.

How to fertilize Canary Island Date Palm

Repotting the Canary Island Date Palm should be done either when it has doubled in size or on a yearly basis, whichever occurs sooner. Fresh potting soil with all the required nutrients, refreshed annually, will provide the plant with all the necessary sustenance, making the use of fertilizer unnecessary. Keep in mind that plants receive their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
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Is Canary Island Date Palm toxic to humans/pets?

Canary Island Date Palm is not known to cause harm to humans or pets.

What seasonal care does Canary Island Date Palm need?

During the wintertime, it's common for Canary Island Date Palm to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more.

More info:
Wikipedia • GBIF

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