This small elegant palm normally has a single greyish trunk with persistent peg-like leaf bases and forms a rounded crown. The divided arching fronds have fine, deep green leaflets and the cream coloured flowers are followed by pendant clusters of black fruit.

Hardiness zones 9 to 12

Phoenix roebelenii is naturally found from Vietnam to Cambodia growing along river banks where it is periodically inundated. It prefers a well drained organic rich moist soil that are tending acidic in an open sunny position and is frost and drought tender.

The Dwarf Date Palm is grown for its graceful habit and is planted along borders or as a specimen in a small garden. It is also grown around pools or ponds for a tropical effect tolerating a hot position. It establishes in 3 to 5 years and is long lived. Mature plants may be transplanted for and instant landscaping effect but are slow to recover. It is also used as an indoor plant when young and it is advisable to remove spines from the leaf bases. ID 423

Phoenix(FEE-nix) roebelenii(rur-be-LIN-ee-eye)

"Phoenix" is the Greek name for the date palm; "roebelenii" commemorates Roebelen, who discovered this plant.

Arecaceae(ar-ek-AY-see-ee)     
(Palmae)
Palm Family