Plant guide

Date palm.

Phoenix dactylifera

Pronounced FEE-niks dak-til-IF-er-uh

Also known as Date, Date Tree, Date palm, Real Date Palm

The date palm is a stately, iconic tree known for its long, feathery fronds and delicious fruit. It thrives in warm, sunny climates and brings a wonderful tropical feel to any space. You will love how its architectural shape stands out in your garden.

At a glance

Care level: Easy
Plant type: Palm tree
Light: Full sun
Indoor light: Direct sun
Water: Every 7 to 14 days
Mature size: 50 to 80 feet
Growth rate: Slow

Care

Ensure your palm gets plenty of direct sunlight to keep it happy and healthy. Watch for yellowing fronds which often signal a need for more light or nutrients. Keep the soil well drained to prevent root issues.

Watering: Water deeply when the top few inches of soil feel dry.
Feeding: Apply a balanced palm fertilizer during the active growing season.
Pruning: Remove only dead or damaged fronds to maintain tree health.
Repotting: Repot only when the roots have completely filled the current container.
Soil: Sandy, well draining soil
Soil pH: 8.0 to 8.5

Safety

Pets: This plant is non toxic to cats and dogs.

How to identify it

Long, arching pinnate fronds
Rough, diamond patterned trunk
Clusters of edible oval fruits
Spiny leaflets near the base

Science

Family: Arecaceae
Genus: Phoenix
Order: Arecales
Class: Liliopsida

Taxonomy resolved against GBIF.

Is your date palm looking unwell?

This page is a general guide. Pocket Botanist diagnoses problems from a photo of your actual plant, works out watering for your light and conditions, and reminds you when care is due.

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This guide was generated with AI and checked against GBIF taxonomy. It is general information, not horticultural or veterinary advice. Read about how we build these guides.