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Plant Profiles / Pygmy date palm
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Pygmy date palm
Phoenix roebelenii · Dwarf date palm
A compact palm with a slender trunk and feathery, arching fronds. Tropical style for pots.
Sun to part shadeLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Bright.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Even moisture.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
2–38°C (36–100°F)
CoolWarm
Light frost only.
Growth
Slow
SlowFast
2–3 m.
Soil
Free-draining
LeanRich
Palm mix.
Fertiliser
Spring–summer
RarelyOften
Palm fertiliser.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Spines can injure.
About this plant
Native to South-East Asia. Grows slowly to 2–3 m. Spines at the frond base are sharp.
Best spots
Sunny balconies, courtyards and bright interiors.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Phoenix roebelenii |
| Family | Arecaceae |
| Origin | South-East Asia |
| Plant type | Palm |
| Mature size | 2–3 m |
| Growth rate | Slow |
| Foliage | Feathery fronds |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic |
| Propagation | Seed |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Active growth
Fertilise
Active growthFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Yellow fronds | Potassium or magnesium deficiency. |
| Brown tips | Dry. |
| Scale | Oil. |
| Root rot | Wet. |
| Frost damage | Protect. |
Common questions
Spines?
Yes, at frond bases.
Indoor?
Bright spot.
Pots?
Yes.
Pet safe?
Yes.
