Pygmy Date Palm
(Phoenix roebelenii)
Pygmy Date Palm (Phoenix roebelenii)
/
/

David J. Stang
CC BY-SA 4.0
Image By:
David J. Stang
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY-SA 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: David J. Stang | License Type: CC BY-SA 4.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0 | Uploader: David Stang | Publisher: Wikimedia Commons |


































Estimated Native Range
Summary
Phoenix roebelenii, commonly known as Pygmy Date Palm, is an evergreen palm native to forested areas along riverbanks and humid, tropical regions of Southeast Asia. It is a small to medium-sized palm with a slow growth rate, reaching heights of 2–7 meters (6.6–23.0 ft) tall. The slender trunk is topped with a crown of arching, feathery fronds. The flowers are small, yellowish, and appear in spring on a 45 cm (18 in) inflorescence. The fruit is an edible 1 cm drupe resembling a small, thin-fleshed date, though it is not commonly consumed. Phoenix roebelenii is widely cultivated for its elegant form and is suitable for gardens in tropical and subtropical climates, as well as indoor cultivation in cooler regions.
The Pygmy Date Palm is valued for its compact size and graceful fronds, making it a favorite for container planting, urban gardens, and as a specimen plant. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring little pruning to develop a strong structure, and is resistant to pests. This palm is also tolerant of soil variation and is moderately drought-tolerant once established. It thrives in partial shade to full sun, with the local climate influencing the ideal planting location. In cultivation, it performs best in part shade, with low to medium water requirements, and prefers soils with medium drainage. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
The Pygmy Date Palm is valued for its compact size and graceful fronds, making it a favorite for container planting, urban gardens, and as a specimen plant. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring little pruning to develop a strong structure, and is resistant to pests. This palm is also tolerant of soil variation and is moderately drought-tolerant once established. It thrives in partial shade to full sun, with the local climate influencing the ideal planting location. In cultivation, it performs best in part shade, with low to medium water requirements, and prefers soils with medium drainage. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Tree, Shrub
- Height: 6-23 feet
- Width: 2-5 feet
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Flower Color: Cream, Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Evergreen
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Part Shade, Full Sun
- Water: Medium
- Drainage: Medium
Common Uses
Bird Garden, Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance, Potted Plant, Rock Garden
Natural Habitat
Forested areas along riverbanks and humid, tropical regions of Southeast Asia
Other Names
Common Names: Dwarf Date Palm, Miniature Date Palm, Robellini Palm, Roebelin Palm
Scientific Names: , Phoenix roebelenii,
GBIF Accepted Name: Phoenix roebelenii O’Brien