Phoenix canariensis

Canary Island Date Palm - Phoenix canariensis
This is the palm that dominates the seafronts of the Canary Islands and every Mediterranean promenade you've ever walked along on holiday. Up close, it's even better - a stout trunk rising into a crown of long, dark green fronds that catch the light beautifully.

Native to the Canary Islands, Phoenix canariensis is slow-growing but impressive, especially in a large container on a sunny patio or terrace. It's hardy to around -6°C in a sheltered spot, which means it needs a little consideration through UK winters - either move it somewhere frost-free or tie the fronds together to protect the growing centre during cold snaps.

This plant is also known as the Canary Date Palm.

Grow in full sun in well-drained compost. Water well through spring and summer, feeding with a balanced fertiliser monthly at half strength. In winter, water sparingly. Only prune fronds that have dropped below horizontal - removing them earlier than this can stress the plant.

Note: the leaf bases have sharp spines - handle with care.

Decorative pot not included.