Canary Island Date Palm
Phoenix canariensis
Canary Island Date Palm
Urban Forest Tree Walk
Scientific Name
Phoenix canariensis
Location
Lowdermilk Park
Fleischmann Park
Cambier Park
The Canary Island Date Palm (Phoenix canariensis) is a stately, iconic palm known for its massive trunk, graceful arching fronds, and grand presence. Originally native to the Canary Islands off the coast of northwest Africa, this palm has become a global favorite, especially in Mediterranean-style and tropical landscapes. In South Florida, it adds a majestic touch to large gardens, boulevards, and entranceways, often serving as a dramatic focal point.
Growing up to 60 feet tall, the Canary Island Date Palm features a thick, columnar trunk often textured with old leaf bases (sometimes called a “pineapple cut”) and crowned by a dense canopy of bright green, feather-like fronds. Each frond can reach 15 feet or more, spreading outward in a full, symmetrical display. In late spring, mature trees produce showy clusters of orange-yellow flowers, followed by small, inedible dates.
This palm is hardy, drought-tolerant once established, and moderately salt-tolerant, making it a reliable choice for warm coastal regions. While it requires space and regular maintenance to keep its massive form tidy, the payoff is a timeless, resort-style aesthetic that elevates almost any setting.
Fast Facts
Palm Royalty
This palm’s grand stature and symmetrical crown have earned it a reputation as “royalty” among landscape palms. It’s a go-to for creating upscale, formal vibes—often flanking driveways, resorts, or public squares.
Hometown
True to its name, the Canary Island Date Palm hails from the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa. It evolved in a dry, subtropical climate—perfectly suited to the heat and sun of South Florida and other warm regions.
Built-In Armor
Its thick trunk and diamond-patterned leaf base scars aren’t just for looks—they provide structural support for the palm’s heavy crown and help it resist high winds, making it a tough yet elegant choice for storm-prone areas.