Of the 2350 species in the world, the Canary Island date palm is the only one that originates in the Canary Islands. It can reach over 12 metres in height and measures between 50 and 70 centimetres in diameter. Its leaves grow to be 6 or 7 metres long.
There are other species in the Canary Islands, such as banana palms or common date palms. The latter belongs to the same genus as the Canary palm, Phoenix, although it features a thinner, taller trunk.
Its scientific name is Phoenix canariensis and it is also known as the pineapple palm.
Soil with good drainage and manure or compost while it is growing. However, once it takes off, it’s not a demanding plant in terms of watering or soil quality. It tolerates an alkaline pH, provided there is not an excess of lime and that iron, magnesium, boron and other minerals are present. These substances enable healthy growth.
It flowers in the months of spring.
Its fruit is the date, which ripens in autumn, around November, one year after flowering.
On average, it takes a specimen 80 years to reach full adult size.
How to take care of a Canary Island date palm
These trees should be planted in locations with sunlight. In spring and summer, it’s a good idea to add fertiliser every 15 days. Given the risk of red palm weevil infestations, a preventive approach is necessary.
Until it is fully developed, a Canary palm requires watering three or four times per week in summer, and once a week throughout the rest of the year. In very hot climates, it should be watered three or four times a week.
This is a species with great longevity. It can live for over 200 years and even reach up to 300.
The growth of the Canary palm is not the fastest among all the known species. It can add on around 30 centimetres of growth each year. However, there are factors that influence growth, such as the soil type and pH, the amount of sunlight, the water, the groundwater level or whether it receives fertiliser.
When should Canary Island date palms be pruned?
With Phoenix canariensis, careful attention, such as pruning, is important. This is carried out when the leaves start to turn a yellowish colour. You should avoid them drying out completely. Pruning can be done at any time of the year except winter.
To prevent infestations of red palm weevil in Canary Island date palms, at SOSPALM we have the most effective treatment: endotherapy. This involves injections administered throughout the year to prevent or fight the infestation.
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