Care of the palm tree Phoenix dactylifera or Date palm |
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The genus Phoenix, Arecaceae family, comprises about 11 species of palm trees native to the Canary Islands, Africa and Asia. Some species are: Phoenix dactylifera, Phoenix canariensis, Phoenix roebelenii, Phoenix theophrasti, Phoenix reclinata, Phoenix sylvestris. Common names: Date palm, True Date Palm Tree. This species is native to North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. They are dioecious palms with a rounded crown that reach 30 meters (98.4 feet) in height and can produce suckers at the base. The long arching leaves have dark green linear acuminate segments with spines at the base. They produce hanging orange or reddish inflorescences. The interesting edible fruits are the famous dates. They are used as isolated specimens, in small groups, in streets and public parks and in pots when they are young. They are ideal for Mediterranean coastal gardens. The Phoenix dactylifera prefers full sun exposure and a warm climate. They resist light and occasional frosts down to -4 ºC (24.8 ºF). The soil can be normal garden soil with plenty of coarse sand for good drainage. Water regularly so that the substrate always retains a slight humidity. They are not as drought resistant as Phoenix canariensis. They do not need fertilizer. Dry leaves can be pruned. They are plants of easy cultivation and resistant to the usual pests and diseases. They are easily propagated from spring sown seeds and by separation of basal suckers. |
Images of the palm tree Phoenix dactylifera or Date palm |
 Phoenix dactylifera  Phoenix dactylifera  Phoenix dactylifera |