Pygmy Date Palm Care Instructions

Taxonomic Name: Phoenix roebelinii

Palm Family

Shrub or Small Tree

Of all the houseplants hardy in our challenging indoor environments, none more closely resembles the elegant palm trees of southern climes more than the pygmy date palm. This native of Laos needs more sunlight than some of its relatives, but if you have a bright location and sufficient space, it should thrive as a superb specimen for years to come. The plant will eventually form a short trunk that can grow to six feet tall.

How to Care for Your Plant:

LIGHT: At least some direct sunlight is best. If your plant is not in a greenhouse or solarium, place it as close as you can to a southern or western window. An eastern window may also suffice.

WATERING: Make sure the soil surface is dry to the touch before you water. When the soil surface is dry, water the plant thoroughly. At least a little water should come out of the pot's bottom drainage holes, but the plant should not stand in saucer water for more than thirty minutes.

FEEDING: Feed your pygmy date palm sparingly, and only when it is actively producing new leaves. At that point, use an all purpose houseplant fertilizer at one-quarter the concentration and frequency listed in the product directions.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Check periodically for spider mites and mealy bug insects. These pests can be controlled with systemic insecticide granules or with horticultural paraffin oil. Also, these and many other pests can be deterred by keeping your palm in high humidity. If possible, use a room humidifier nearby.