CANARY ISLAND DATE PALM

We have planted and transplanted thousands of these palm trees throughout Florida. Most were extremely large. We may have transplanted the tallest one ever in Florida with 50 feet of trunk height. All of the large ones are purchased from homeowners and can be anywhere from 15 to 80 years old. The Canary only grows at a normal rate of 6″ a year, sometimes fast as 12″ a year. I’ve met several homeowners that were stabbed with the thorns and hospitalized. Short ones are a definite hazard to children and pets, although they will only get poked once. An interesting note is how they got to Florida from the Canary Islands. I’m not positive about this, but the rumor is they were brought here by pirates. I’m going with that story. The Canary does much better in arid climates and can easily be overwatered. We like to plant them high so the water will run off them easily. I’ve had several that died because of overwatering. These are the most expensive trees in Florida but there is no other tree like it. The Canary Island Date Palm stands alone as the King of Palms.

The massive trunk of the Canary Island Date Palm supports a large crown of over 50 arching pinnate leaves, which can reach 18 feet long. These deep green leaves transition to a yellow stem where the leaflets are replaced by sharp spines.

In high rainfall areas like Florida, ferns often grow among the old leaf stems. Decomposing leaf litter and fibrous matter collect there, creating an absorbent compost that sword ferns thrive in, forming a hanging garden just below the palm’s canopy.

The orange dates form on drooping, highly branched inflorescences and are very decorative. They are edible but not very tasty.

Due to the Texas Phoenix Palm Decline (TPPD), The Tree Planters no longer offer a guarantee on these palms.

Phoenix canariensis is native to the Canary Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of northeast Africa. These stately palms are popular in near frost-free climates worldwide. They grow throughout Florida and along the Gulf of Mexico coastline. They are also planted in warm areas of the western U.S., including Arizona, California, and Las Vegas, Nevada. Widely used on the French Riviera, this palm gives a distinctive look to Mediterranean resorts.

This palm grows very slowly when young. Once the trunk reaches its full diameter, the growth rate increases. Fertilize in spring and summer. It tolerates most well-drained soils. Keep lawn grasses and mulch away from the trunk. Use a light, fast-draining soil mix when growing in containers. Young plants are very susceptible to leaf spot and other fungal infections in humid climates. I have successfully treated this condition with Daconil fungicide spray (follow instructions on the container).

The Canary Island Date Palm truly thrives in a bright, sunny environment. While mature plants are resilient to drought, it’s important to water young palms regularly to ensure they maintain a healthy appearance and grow more rapidly. This palm is well-suited for USDA Zones 9-11 and can withstand frost, enduring temperatures as low as 28°F without suffering cold damage. Propagation is typically achieved through seeds, making it accessible for those looking to cultivate this remarkable plant.

For a dramatic statement, use this imposing palm where there is space to accommodate it. Small specimens are inexpensive, readily available, and look great in pots on the patio, near the pool, or in pairs flanking entryways.

Warning: Don’t place young palms too close to walkways, as their sharp leaf spines might injure passersby.