Phoenix theophrasti

Phoenix theophrasti (18/10/2014, Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid)

Position: Full sun to light shade

Flowering period: Early spring

Soil: Moist, well drained

Eventual Height: 15m

Eventual Spread: 7m

Hardiness: 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b, 10a, 10b, 11

Family: Arecaceae

Phoenix theophrasti is an evergreen palm tree, often with multiple stems. Its mid green leaves are up to 3m long,  pinnate with spines on its petioles. Its leaflets are up to 30cm long and 2cm broad. Its stem may achieve a diameter of up to 35cm. Its bark is light grey/ brown with leaf bases persisting. Its dioecious yellow flowers are small, are produced on an inflorescence which is up to 70cm long and are wind pollinated. Its yellow/ brown fruit is a drupe, up to 15mm long 1cm in diameter.

Phoenix theophrasti, commonly known as Cretan Date Palm, is native to the eastern Mediterranean region. In its native habitat it grows on the sandy beds of occasional streams and rocky grounds near the coast.

The etymological root of the binomial name Phoenix is the old Greek name for this Palm, used by Theophrastus. Theophrasti is named after ‘Theophrastus’, the father of botany.

Phoenix theophrasti Leaf (18/10/2014, Real Jardín Botánico de Madrid)

The landscape architect may find Phoenix theophrasti useful as a specimen tree. This tree will benefit from some winter protection in the UK.

Ecologically, Phoenix theophrasti fruit are attractive to birds and mammals.

Phoenix theophrasti prefers moist, well-drained soils. It tolerates most pH of soil.

Phoenix theophrasti requires little maintenance. The lower dead leaf fronds may be removed to keep a tidy appearance.