Phoenix canariensis
While native to the Canary Islands, this species is widely planted in warmer areas of North America such as Florida, Texas, and California. This high-value ornamental is closely related to the true date palm, Phoenix dactylifera, but is more susceptible to several disease concerns.
- Culture
- Concerns
- Management
Culture for Canary Date Palm
Performs best on sandy well-drained soils. Nutrient intensive, often needing high potassium (K) and magnesium (Mg) fertilization in landscape settings to produce normal dense green canopy. Not hardy below 10-15° F for any duration.
Concerns about Canary Date Palm
Susceptible to several diseases, including ‘pink rot’, Fusarium wilt (highly lethal), crown drop caused by the fungus Thielaviopsis, and Ganoderma basal decay. Sudden crown drop is extremely dangerous and difficult to predict.
Management Practices for Canary Date Palm
Palms should be fertilized twice annually with higher rates of N, Mg, and K compared to most tree species. Prune dead fronds, but do not prune any fronds growing horizontal or upwards. Great care must be taken to sterilize saws between trees to avoid spread of Fusarium wilt. Treat crown with registered fungicides for pink rot, or preventatively if the disease is present in the landscape. Fusarium-infected plants must be removed immediately following specific protocol.
Photos related to Canary Date Palm
Specimen showing Magnesium deficiency
One-sided frond death
Internal pink streaking typical of Fusarium infection