Phoenix theophrastii - S

About the Phoenix theophrastii - S

Phoenix theophrasti, also known as the Cretan date palm, is an evergreen, suckering palm with stiff, pinnate leaves in grey-green to blue-green shades. The lower leaflets are modified into robust, sharp spines and give the crown a bold, architectural appearance. In size S, the palm can conveniently be kept in a container in a sunny, warm position protected from cold and strong winds. The commercial size does not indicate its current age or developmental stage.

Characteristics

Origin: Phoenix theophrasti is native to Crete, several islands in the eastern Aegean Sea and south-western Turkey. The species grows in coastal areas, along riverbanks and in gorges, among other habitats, often in well-drained sandy, rocky or calcareous soil.

Family: This species belongs to the palm family, Arecaceae.

Position: Choose a sunny, warm outdoor position protected from cold and strong winds, for example against a south-facing wall. In the Dutch climate, growing size S in a container is the safest option. The palm can remain outdoors during frost-free periods and must be moved to a bright, frost-free space before the first night frost. Ensure sufficient ventilation during overwintering.

Height: A mature Phoenix theophrasti usually reaches approximately 10 metres in height; exceptional specimens can reach around 17 metres. As it produces suckers, the species can eventually form a cluster with several trunks. These mature dimensions describe the species and not the current size of the offered specimen in size S.

Flowering period: Mature plants generally flower in April and May in their native range. The species is dioecious, which means that male and female flowers are produced on separate plants. Flowering of the offered specimen is not guaranteed.

Flower colour: The small flowers are yellow-white and are borne in branched inflorescences among the leaves.

Hardiness: Phoenix theophrasti is not reliably hardy in the Netherlands. Protect a plant in size S completely from frost and overwinter it in a bright, frost-free place. Keep the root ball on the dry side during the cold period, but do not allow it to remain completely dry for an extended time.

Soil type: Use an airy, well-drained substrate, such as high-quality palm compost mixed with coarse sand, fine lava granules or pumice. The container must have ample drainage holes, as standing water can cause root damage.

Care

Light: Give the palm as much direct sunlight as possible. In spring, gradually acclimatise a plant that has overwintered indoors to full outdoor sun to prevent leaf scorch.

Water: From spring to autumn, water when the upper layer of the substrate has dried. Moisten the root ball evenly and allow excess water to drain away completely. Water less in winter and adjust the amount to the lower temperature and slower growth.

Fertiliser: During active growth, apply a suitable palm fertiliser in moderation according to the instructions on the packaging. Do not fertilise when growth has almost come to a standstill in winter.

Pruning: Remove only completely dead leaves and leave green leaves and the central growing point intact. Wear sturdy gloves and work carefully because of the sharp spines on the leaf stalks.

Repotting: Repot preferably in spring when the roots have largely filled the container. Choose a stable, slightly larger and sufficiently deep container with ample drainage holes. Handle the roots carefully and do not position the palm any deeper than before.

Humidity: Average humidity is suitable. Ensure good air circulation during overwintering and do not keep the palm for extended periods in a warm, dark or poorly ventilated space.

Special features: Phoenix theophrasti naturally produces suckers and can therefore develop several trunks. Only a female plant can produce fruit after pollination by a male plant. Mature female palms can produce small yellow-brown dates that ripen in autumn in their native range and are sometimes eaten locally. The fruits contain little flesh and are not comparable with commercial dates. The sex of the offered specimen and future flowering or fruiting are not guaranteed.