Phoenix roebelenii
Phoenix roebelenii
Pygmy Date Palm
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Common Names
Pygmy Date PalmMiniature Date PalmDwarf Date Palm
Context
nativeRegion
Southeast Asia, specifically Laos, Vietnam, and southern China.
usdaZones
10-11
companionPlants
Chamaedorea elegans, Calathea, Sansevieria
culturalUses
Popular as an ornamental indoor palm for its compact stature and decorative foliage; also used in subtropical landscapes.
Care
Care Requirements
LightBright, indirect light is ideal. Can tolerate some direct sun but avoid harsh midday sunlight indoors.
WateringWater thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil is dry. Less frequent watering is needed in winter; avoid soggy soil.
SoilWell-draining, fertile potting mix; prefers a mix formulated for palms or a blend with peat, sand, and perlite.
FertilizerFeed monthly during the growing season with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer; do not fertilize in winter.
HumidityPrefers moderate to high humidity. Can tolerate typical indoor humidity but benefits from occasional misting.
TemperatureThrives in temperatures of 18-24°C (65-75°F). Protect from drafts and cold below 10°C (50°F).
Growth & Life Cycle
HabitEvergreen, clumping palm with multiple slim trunks and graceful, arching fronds.
Mature Size1.5-2.5 m (5-8 ft) tall, 1-2 m (3-6 ft) wide indoors or in containers.
Growth RateSlow growing.
BloomingSmall, creamy-white flowers; infrequent when grown indoors. Fruit (dates) rarely produced inside.
DormancyNo true dormancy; slows growth in cooler months.
Propagation
MethodsSeed
DifficultyModerate—germination from seed is slow and can be variable.
Best SeasonLate spring or early summer.
Maintenance & Notes
PruningRemove only brown or damaged fronds. Avoid cutting green foliage as this can weaken the plant.
RepottingRepot every 2-3 years or when rootbound, ideally in spring.
Pests & DiseasesSusceptible to spider mites, scale, and mealybugs. Root rot can occur in waterlogged soil.
ToxicityMildly toxic—sharp leaf spines can cause skin irritation or minor injuries; non-toxic if ingested.
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