Free Phoenix Canariensis Plants

A distinctive and extremely attractive palm, with stiff leaflets and an upright but spreading habit. When small it makes an effective display plant for a table or other piece of furniture. As it grows taller and the habit spreads, the plant is best moved down to the floor. It is important to maintain a high level of humidity otherwise the leaflets will quickly turn brown at the ends and require trimming. If this becomes necessary, use sharp scissors and leave a thin edge of dead tissue. When the Phoenix produces new fronds, the leaflets tend to stick together as they emerge. These will normally free themselves as they grow, but if they begin to suffer tease them gently apart.

Plant type : Palm with erect but spreading habit
Season of interest : All year round
Size : 100-200cm (39—78in)
Flower : None indoors
Leaf : Feather-like fronds 30-100cm (12 —39in) long, comprised of many stiff leaflets, 10-20cm (4—8in) long, 0.5-1cm A-jin) wide, green
Temperature : 18-21°C (64—70°F)
Aspect/Light : Well-lit situation with some sunlight
Humidity : Moderate to high
Watering : Evenly moisten compost in spring and summer, allowing to dry just a little before re-watering; water less in autumn and winter
Feeding : Once every two to four weeks with houseplant fertilizer in spring and summer
Propagation : Sow seeds in seed and cutting compost at 27°C (80°F) in mid to late spring
Potting : Houseplant potting compost
Problems : Mealy bug, root mealy bug, scale insect, root rot due to over-watering, browning of leaves in dry atmosphere
Availability : Occasionally available throughout year
Uses indoors : Feature plant for table-top then floor in lounge or dining room
Other varieties : P. dactylifera- more upright and vigorous